Singh’s efforts not in ‘vein’

It is estimated that over the past five decades, Mackenzie Park’s Jaikumar Singh has saved the lives of 990 individuals.

It is difficult to believe that this unassuming silver-haired man has touched the lives of so many without ever seeing their faces.

On October 4, Singh visited the South African National Blood Service’s (SANBS) donor centre in Northmead, to make his 331st donation.

Flashing a coy smile as phlebotomists prepare to collect his donation, he confesses that his journey as a regular blood donor started with a white lie.

“When I was 13, I delivered newspapers in Hillbrow. I diligently did my rounds through the crowded streets to help my parents cover the costs associated with my education,” he said.

“I always heard my grandfather say that he had donated blood and during one of my rounds I stumbled upon a donor centre. He was my hero and I wanted to follow his example, so I amended my birth date to be eligible to donate.”

Laughing, he said that back then everything was done manually so it was easier to manipulate the system.

“I remember the blood being collected in glass pint bottles and the needles caused severe discomfort, but I was there every second week,” he said.

“I would return home with great pride to tell my ‘dada’ that I had once again donated blood.”

Currently holding the East Rand record for the person who has made the most donations, Singh said that although he initially signed up as a donor to impress his late grandfather, he only truly realised the impact of his actions in 1988, following a severe vehicle accident.

“My right hip, forearm and hand were crushed upon impact, I was rushed to hospital in a critical condition as doctors scrambled to save my arm,” he said as he ran his finger over the scars.

“I had lost a lot of blood but was able to make a full recovery due to the availability of blood stocks. A selfless donor saved my life and I wanted to repay the favour.”

Adhering to the protocols in place, Singh waited patiently for the opportunity to once again roll up his sleeve.

“I could not wait to take my seat, as the bag systematically filled I felt like Superman,” he said.

According to Edwin Majoro, SANBS donor recruiter at the Northmead donor centre, each centre strives to collect up to 20 units of blood per day, however, donations are dwindling.

“To continue saving lives, we are appealing to anyone aged between 16 and 75 and weighing more than 50kg to assist in replenishing our blood supplies,” said Majoro.

“Although our services are aimed at saving lives, being a regular donor also has its benefits.”

He explained that each time a donor visits the centre, they will undergo a mini medical evaluation which includes blood pressure and iron level screenings.

“In terms of iron levels our knowledgeable staff can assist donors in managing optimal levels,” he said.

“The donation process draws oxygenated blood from the system. The process subsequently stimulates the reproduction of red blood cells which boosts immunity and overall well-being.”

Sipping on a glass of chilled juice, Singh chimed in saying that he thinks that a fear of needles may prevent prospective donors from heeding the SANBS’ call.

“To save a life you have to endure short-lived discomfort and that is really what it is, brief,” said Singh.

“As someone who has been on both sides of the fence, I will happily receive my rewards in juice and biscuits than live knowing I could have saved another but a fear prevented me.”

Majoro said that when considering blood donation, first-time donors are encouraged to rally the troops.

“Bring a friend, your mom, your aunty or sister to donate blood,” he said.

“Company and conversation will distract you from the process and it is something you can continue doing together every 56 days.”

For more information about SANBS and blood donation contact the donor centre on 011 897 4951 or go to www.sanbs.co.za.

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