“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view…until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.”

Harper Lee, To Kill a Mockingbird

It’s a wonderful feeling to truly know and be known.  No matter the course of our journey, we share the most basic of human needs: to be loved and accepted.  This is the motivation behind the Icla da Silva Foundation’s annual Mix & Match event, which has continued in this spirit since its inception seven years ago.

In 2010, the foundation conducted several patient interviews in a bid to identify potential gaps in the Patient Support Services provided.  The invaluable patient responses expressed a desire to connect with others who truly understood the unique circumstances they were facing.  Meeting other people going through, or who have already come through a similar situation, is a powerful tool indeed.  The patients assisted by the foundation, those waiting for bone marrow transplants, as well as marrow donors, caregivers, friends and family were ready to connect on a deeper level.

Inspired to action, Icla sought creative ideas on how to effectively connect a diverse group of people with one another.  As an organization providing assistance to those awaiting bone marrow transplants, it is easy to focus on administrative requirements rather than the emotional needs presented.  The foundation understood, however, that emotional health was key to the fight.  Emotionally healthy patients and their families are equipped to succeed.  Time and time again, Icla has witnessed how a positive attitude towards impossible circumstances makes the greatest difference to the healing and recovery process; no matter the unexpected obstacles or the final outcome.

Inspired to provide a platform for the celebration of life, the idea of Mix & Match was born.  A special event held annually, it brings together patients and families whose lives have been affected by leukemia and other diseases treatable by bone marrow transplants. It is more than just an afternoon of education, sharing and support; for those who need it most, it is a breath of fresh air and a precious time of healing.

“There is no intimacy without vulnerability.  Yet another powerful example of vulnerability as courage.”

Brené Brown

On May 20, 2017 the Icla da Silva foundation hosted a Mix & Match event at the InterContinental New York Barclay Hotel, in New York City.  Quite literally a mix of people from all walks of life, this amazing afternoon provided a safe place for those who have carried much.  The stories shared were honest, beautiful, inspiring, heartbreaking and sometimes, raw.  Everyone sat riveted by the captivating life stories of conquering adversity, pouring from the heart.

It was a wonderful time of connection as each former and current patient, their family support circles and their bone marrow donors had a chance to share their own stories.  Emotions bubbled over as awe-inspiring testimonies filled the space between hearts.  Some attendees were bone marrow transplant recipients now living normal lives.  Others, at various stages of the journey, are still waiting to find their perfect bone marrow match through channels like the Be The Match Registry.

“You may never know what results come of your action, but if you do nothing there will be no result.”

Mahatma Gandhi

As always, the personal connections made at Mix & Match were real and lasting.  Everyone who shared their story felt validated and supported by people who truly understood.  Everyone who listened was able to walk away with assured and encouraged.  For those awaiting a bone marrow match, the stories provided crucial footholds on a journey of hope.  For others who had already received a successful transplant and a new a lease on life itself, there was an immense outpouring of gratitude; and the challenge to assist and encourage others who are now walking the same road.  Every life deserves to be celebrated.

See more photos from the event here.

Each one of us holds the power to make a difference in the world; to make the decision to save someone’s life.  Make a difference today and join the Icla da Silva foundation’s Giving Circle with a monthly contribution.