The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department is hosting a bone marrow drive on

The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department is hosting a bone marrow drive on Black Mountain Road on Saturday, inspired by a previous successful driver for a cancer-stricken firefighter.

According to a department news release:

San Diego Firefighter Arsenio “RC” Ortanez needed a life-saving bone marrow transplant in his battle against chronic myelogenous leukemia. Firefighter Aid, a local charity that helps firefighters in need and the San Diego Fireman’s Relief Association organized a successful bone marrow registry drive. RC’s struggle and the overwhelming response of the community has alerted his co-workers, friends and supporters to the need for more marrow donors in the Asian Pacific Islander American population.

Asians comprise only 7 percent of the national bone marrow registry. The chances of finding a match are significantly increased among donors of similar ethnicity.

Joining the registry involves a simple swab on the inside of the cheek. There is no charge to be tested. Anyone 18 to 60 years old, regardless of ethnicity, who is willing to become a potential donor is eligible to register.

The drive is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at nearby Fire Station No. 44 at 10011 Black Mountain Rd.