IUDM Alumni Gives Back After 2010’s IUDM

By: Ayaan Abbasi

Dance Marathon has always been a part of Kate McDougal’s life. From elementary to high school, she remembers hearing about events for Riley Hospital for Children including a walkathon and Carmel Dance Marathon, and in her freshman year, she joined what is now FYDE.

At that first IUDM, she didn’t know that experience “would have a lasting impact on someone’s life,” Kate said.

In 2010, at the marathon, there was a station for Be the Match, something she decided to take part in. She took a cheek swab, and if there was a match in the future, she would be able to donate bone marrow and/or stem cells.

Six years later, she received a call to be a match, but unfortunately, the person passed away. A few months ago, she received another call, and ultimately was able to donate her stem cells.

The experience showed her that “people can still do something bigger than themselves,” something she felt not only with Be the Match, but also with IUDM.

After her freshman year in IUDM, she was unable to continue participating due to two other commitments, but is still close to two of her friends she met that year.

Kate said, “I didn’t realize that…signing up to be a bone marrow donor would have a lasting impact on someone’s life. Although I may never see that impact or meet that person, I’m so happy to know that I did my best to help them.”