Leukaemia is a particularly cruel form of cancer, in that it strikes down many children and young people. Nicola Coates is only 24.

She was just about to graduate from her journalism course when she fell ill with the disease.

It would be a terrible blow to any family. But for the Coates, it was the news they most dreaded. They have already lost Nicola's sister Helen to a different cancer of the blood.

Nicola has twice successfully beaten off leukaemia. Devastatingly it has returned again and she is undergoing intensive chemotherapy in hospital.

The situation must be almost unbearable for her family.

Yet there is hope. Leukaemia might be a cruel disease, but it can be defeated. A bone marrow transplant could save Nicola's life.

We need only think of India Farmer to remind ourselves how much of a difference this operation can make.

The five-year-old from Harrogate was diagnosed with myeloid leukaemia three years ago.

Her plight famously touched the heart of the Duchess of York, who donated her own blood as part of the search for a match. A suitable donor was found and the bone marrow transplant took place.

The operation both saved and transformed India's life. Last month, on the anniversary of a donor being found, we reported how India was back at school, filled with vitality and fun.

It was a modern medical miracle. To see it repeated, we must find a donor for Nicola. You could be the match; you could save her life. The only way to know is to come forward as soon as possible.

Time is not on Nicola's side. A match must be found quickly.

Our readers have always responded with great generosity to our appeals for various good causes. On this occasion we are not seeking cash, but a sample of blood.

This is a lot to ask, we know. But someone, somewhere possesses the genetic key to unlock Nicola Coates's future. It will take only a matter of moments to discover whether you hold the key.

There are few occasions when we are asked to make a life or death decision. Volunteers who take part in our search for a donor will be doing just that.

It could be you who saves Nicola's life.

Please help.

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