'Our hope has arrived' - Stem cell donor found for Baby Leo

Baby Leo Parker finally has a fighting chance!

"After months of prayers, searching, and uncertainty, our hope has arrived. A perfect stem cell donor has been found for our beloved son, Leo!" - wrote Leo's dad, Andrew, in a Facebook post.

He went on to say: "Our journey is far from over. In fact, the hardest part is still ahead, but today, we pause to celebrate this life-saving breakthrough! Our brave little lion has faced every challenge with a heart full of courage and a smile that lights up our world. And now, thanks to this incredible match and to an amazing community standing beside us, he has a fighting chance."

Leo has an extremely rare genetic disorder called MECOM-Associated Syndrome, which leads to complete bone marrow failure.

His diagnosis is said to be the first of its kind in South Africa, with only 23 known cases worldwide.

His parents say that in his short life, Leo has seen more than 20 medical specialists and undergone multiple X-rays, ultrasounds, biopsies, procedures under anaesthesia, and at least 14 blood transfusions - with an ongoing need for more.

He has also faced an unfathomably high number of blood tests and painful needle pricks.

Finding a stem cell or bone marrow donor is a matter of life and death for thousands of people around the world.

If you are between the ages of 17 and 55, healthy, and willing to be a donor, the process is simple and begins with a cheek swab that you can perform from the comfort of your home.

DKMS, an international nonprofit organisation dedicated to the fight against blood cancer, assists patients in finding matching stem cell donors.

They offer a free service that delivers and collects a DNA swab kit at your address.

Click here to find out more about how to register.

You could be the miracle match that someone has been waiting for.