A LEUKAEMIA sufferer in Germany has been given a new chance of life thanks to a Kidderminster mum who donated her bone marrow.

But for mother-of-two Karen Harris, 40, it has been a long wait for the chance to help.

Karen, who works as a temporary curator of natural science at Ludlow Museum, joined the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Register more than 20 years ago but only recently received a call from the charity asking for assistance.

She said: "I had given up. I thought they were never going to want me."

Karen, who also gives blood and carries an organ donor card, said she joined the register when she was 19 after a campaign led by her former GP in Droitwich.

She said: "I think everyone ought to have the opportunity to live their life to the full. It's a great feeling knowing that I was helping somebody in such a direct way."

She said the operation to remove the bone marrow last month had produced some discomfort and left her with a few small marks on her lower back, but she would do it all again.

She added she was able to leave the hospital in London the day after the operation.

"All I know about the person I helped is that he's an adult male, living in Germany."

She said she understood the operation had gone well and she hoped to be able to meet the patient, with his agreement, in the future.

Prospective bone marrow donors must be aged between 18 and 40 and in general good health. Male donors and those from all ethnic backgrounds are particularly needed.

Anyone wanting further information or wishing to make a financial donation should call the trust regional office on 01865 875757/8 or the area office on 0121 553 4480.