Fairfield University is proud to partner with local lacrosse and hockey families to host a NMDP (formerly known as Be The Match and the National Marrow Donor Program) Blood Stem Registry swab event during the upcoming Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) games at Rafferty Stadium on July 18–19, 2025. This critical initiative aims to find a lifesaving bone marrow match for 22-year-old University of Michigan lacrosse player Mason Whitney, who was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) in May. A Fairfield native, Mason is a former All-American in both lacrosse and hockey at Fairfield Prep and has become a standout defensive leader at Michigan.
The swab event at Fairfield University will provide attendees and community members the opportunity to register as potential donors—a step that could be lifesaving for Mason and others battling blood cancers.
Event Details:
What: NMDP Blood Stem Registry Swab and Registration Event
When: Friday, July 18, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, July 19, 1:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where: Fairfield University Rafferty Stadium Lot
The swab procedure is simple, non-invasive, and takes only a few minutes. Young adults ages 18–35 are especially encouraged to participate, as they are the most likely to be a match for patients in need.
Mason’s parents, Christyn and Scott Whitney, along with his siblings and the greater Fairfield community have been rallying around him with support and hope. Mason’s journey from high school athlete to collegiate lacrosse leader at Michigan reflects his strength and determination—a spirit that continues to inspire many.
“We have been overwhelmed and humbled by the outpouring of support for Mason and our family,” said Christyn Whitney. “While Mason currently has a 50% sibling match, his medical team will continue to search the donor database for his best match. We continue to support NMDP's mission to add volunteers to the national database for Mason and others seeking a life-saving transplant. If even one person needing a donor finds their match as a result of our efforts, then something truly good will have come from this journey."
“We are deeply moved by Mason’s story and honored to support him through this event,” said Jennifer Anderson, Fairfield University’s vice president of Marketing and Communications. “This is a powerful example of how the sports community can come together to make a difference.”
For more information, including how to be tested as a potential match for Mason, text TeamMasonCT to 61474 or visit my.nmdp.org/teammasonct.
NMDP:
The NMDP, formerly known as the National Marrow Donor Program and Be The Match, maintains a registry of millions of potential donors nationwide. Their mission is to save lives through bone marrow and blood stem cell transplants, offering hope to thousands of patients each year.
