THOUSAND OAKS : Bone Marrow Donors Sought for Woman

Blood testing for potential bone marrow donors is scheduled Tuesday to aid a Westlake woman hospitalized with acute leukemia.

Mary Ellen Cudio, 45, had a nearly perfect-match for a bone marrow transplant until Dec. 27, when she was informed that, for medical reasons, the donor no longer would be able to provide her with the bone marrow she needs to survive.

Family, friends and co-workers are asking for donations and urging people to take the blood test.

More than 5,000 flyers have been distributed in Ventura County and nearly 400 people have signed up for the blood testing.

The test, which will be free of charge to those taking it, will be conducted by staff from the National Marrow Donor Program and UCLA.

Cudio, who was diagnosed with leukemia in 1987, will probably be able to live a normal life span if a donor is found, doctors say.

Tests will be given from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1408 N. Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks.

Those taking the test may either walk in or make appointments by calling 495-7066.

Those with questions about donating bone marrow should contact Lynnette Chandler with the National Marrow Donor Program at 987-6935.