Claire Cook
Claire Cook and her husband Edward, of Hemel Hempstead, were previously aware of stem cell banking, and when Claire became pregnant in July 2006, they felt it was something they should consider. Claire, a nurse currently working in the community, and Edward felt the dual banking aspect of Virgin Health Bank, offering both private and public banking, made it stand out. They joined Virgin Health Bank and when Claire gave birth to their first child, Benjamin, in March 2007, they stored his stem cells.
Claire says: “We read about stem cell banking in various articles and websites and I also knew about the service from work. I didn’t seek particular professional advice but did mention it to a midwife at the hospital, who was positive about it. We felt that as the technology for stem cell banking was there, we should store our son’s stem cells. If we didn’t, we thought we may regret it.
“We really liked the dual aspect of the service as it can help as many people as possible. It also gives more opportunities for people who may need stem cells for treating serious illnesses. Another reason we chose Virgin Health Bank is because the Virgin brand is well known and trusted.
“I discussed it with my husband early into my pregnancy and then at 30 weeks we decided to use the service. I registered but was worried I had left it too late. I thought I might go into labour before receiving the pack so I rang up Virgin Health Bank’s customer service line and explained this. I received the pack the following morning.
“I had a traumatic birth but my hospital, Watford General, still managed to take the sample. The hospital was really obliging and made it very easy. Everyone I spoke to at Virgin Health Bank was pleasant and courteous. Throughout this whole process, people have been helpful and informative. I would definitely use the service again if we have any more children.”