We love hearing about OpenIDEATORS who are inspired to take what they’ve learned in a challenge and translate that into real-world action. In our Bone Marrow Donation Challenge, we’ve recently heard some great stories about community members who’ve gone above and beyond to turn ideas into reality. Here’s an update from just a few of them:

Uber-collaborator and innovator Sina Mossayeb, whose clever concept University DIY Kits has been incorporated into the Social Change in a Box idea by 100K Cheeks, says the challenge has motivated him to register to donate. “My desire to donate marrow…was solely inspired by the process of engaging with the OpenIDEO Challenge…I was sitting there reviewing some entries, and I thought: ‘Wait. Why haven't I registered yet?’ Being in touch with [people] who had given and received marrow only solidified this feeling. And so, I registered. I knew it was something I wanted to do, and so I did it. I'm excited about giving – really, really excited. And it wouldn't have happened if not for OpenIDEO.”

Passionate OpenIDEATOR Chloe Tseung was inspired to take her winning idea, Tap into the Influence of Spiritual Leaders, and try her hand at getting her local church involved in the cause. “I met with someone from my church a few weeks ago and shared with her my proposal…now I’m waiting to have a meeting set up to discuss the plan further. Also I will be having a call next weekend with another local representative [to discuss] how to run a bone marrow registry drive at church.” Interestingly, Chloe’s learning that achieving impact can take time: “There is progress but I guess it's a little bit slower than I wanted!”

Finally, designer Carola Ponce channeled her own personal experience with bone marrow donation throughout this OpenIDEO challenge and in the development of her winning concept, Matchpoint. Carola’s boyfriend received a bone marrow transplant, and when she heard about our OpenIDEO challenge, she says, “I instantly became an OpenIDEATOR.” Once the Realisation phase launched, she contacted 100K Cheeks to see how she could help. Her concept is now influencing the students’ work, especially in the marrowtree.org project we highlighted in a previous Realisation post. Of 100K Cheeks, Carola says, “It has been simply amazing to meet the faces behind this committed group of students who are dedicating their time to connecting patients with donors.”

Great work Sina, Chloe and Carola! We’re so thrilled to hear that this challenge has inspired you and we can’t wait to hear more updates!

Now what about you? How has this challenge motivated you to raise awareness, register more donors, or connect personally with someone in need of a transplant? We’d love to hear from you and help share your own Realisation story with our OpenIDEO community.