DURBAN North resident Hilton Jimmy Hollows marked an extraordinary milestone last week when he donated blood for the 200th time at the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) centre in Durban North.

Hollows, 74, began donating blood in 1971 while serving in the army, and has continued for 55 years now, describing blood donation as a passion rooted in thinking about others and saving lives.

“I was asked to donate back then while in the army,” he said. “My very first donation was actually thrown away because I took too long to bleed. In those days there wasn’t the fancy equipment you see today.”

He recalls that many blood drives were held at workplaces, including at the sugar refinery, where a doctor was stationed on site and corporate blood drives were a norm. Over the decades, Hollows has witnessed major advances in blood donation technology and processes.

Hollows has survived a double gunshot wound, cancer and a serious bout of pneumonia, and considers himself fortunate to be alive .

“I’m lucky to be alive and know all too well just how precious life is,” he said, adding that donating blood has remained a constant in his life.

Hollows donates every 80 days, the general frequency allowed, and says each visit still feels meaningful.

“Every donation is a milestone and a real achievement. Reaching 50 donations is huge so 200 is good mileage. I’m happy I can still do it and I’ll carry on for as long as my health allows.”

Each blood donation collects about 450ml, meaning Hollows has donated an estimated 90l of blood over his lifetime.

He has been donating at the Kensington Square SANBS since it opened and is an O-positive donor, a blood type that is already in high demand.

His blood also contains rare antibodies, making him an especially valuable donor, as antibodies help fight serious infections.

Many years ago, when SANBS still supported international cases, Hollows’ blood was sent overseas to help a young patient in London, a practice that is no longer part of SANBS procedures.

Despite the scale of his achievement, Hollows insists the focus should not be on him.

“This isn’t about celebrating my milestone with publicity. I’m doing this to encourage others to donate.”

He wants to encourage schools, businesses and individuals to get involved.

“Donating blood is about thinking of others. If you can help save a life, it’s always worth it, ” he said.

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