BLOOD BROTHER

He started donating at 19 and when he realised his rare blood type could save many lives he just kept going!

- BY JANICE BECKETT-MSIZA PICTURES: SHARON SERETLO

HE KNOWS the drill like the back of his hand - sleeve rolled up, blood pressure taken, needle inserted, machine hooked up.

Then the gift he keeps on giving is extracted from his body: blood is withdrawn, and plasma and platelets are separated, to be used to help people with rare and chronic diseases and patients with blood conditions such as haemophilia.

Dave Jamieson’s donations are vital: he has rare type-A negative blood, and while all types of the life-giving red stuff are in short supply, his blood is even harder for the medical world to get their hands on in an emergency.

Dave is welcomed into the SA National Blood Service (SANBS) donor centre in Kempton Park, Joburg, with open arms and warm smiles – and when you hear just how dedicated he is, it’s little wonder he’s such a legend here.

Dave is 72 and one of the most regular donors in the centre. Every two weeks like clockwork he’s here, ready to roll up his sleeve - but today is extra special.

The process of extracting his plasma and platelets takes about 80 minutes and today he's doing nine cycles. Each cycle involves the drawing and processing of these precious resources, and his blood is then recirculated back into his body.

Last month the centre honoured Dave at their annual Donor Awards for his outstanding contributions in 2023 - the ceremony was delayed by two years due to the pandemic throwing everything off kilter – and Dave received a certificate for his 375th donation.

Dave's certificate will join the medals, cups, pens and ornaments he’s received over the years — many of which he's brought along to show us.