Dr Henry Kirby, a 76-year-old retired medical doctor, spent many years saving lives, often relying on blood transfusions to help patients recover from surgery, illness and trauma. He never imagined he would one day depend on those life-saving donations himself.
In 2007, Dr Kirby was diagnosed with Hairy Cell Leukaemia, a rare and slow developing chronic blood cancer that affects the bone marrow and spleen. Following chemotherapy, he required 6 units of blood to restore his depleted blood cells. Although Hairy Cell Leukaemia is not curable, effective treatments can lead to long term remission. Dr Kirby remained in remission for many years, although his chronic disease left him fatigued and facing health challenges.
Towards the end of 2025, Dr Kirby’s health took a serious turn when his haemoglobin dropped significantly. He was referred to the Haemolife Centre at Netcare Kuilsriver, where a bone marrow biopsy confirmed the Hairy Cell Leukaemia had returned and taken over his bone marrow. He underwent further chemotherapy, which further impacted his haemoglobin levels, resulting in additional blood transfusions.
Due to a weakened immune system, his condition became more complex. He developed septicaemia and septic arthritis in his knee. Shortly after that, a rupture of his sigmoid colon, (a crucial part of the large intestine), led to emergency surgery and life-saving blood transfusions.
Dr Kirby spent many weeks in the ICU, followed by time in a recovery unit where he had to re-learn to walk. In total, he received 24 units of blood. He finally discharged from the hospital in mid-March 2026 and is continuing his recovery at home with his wife, Henriette.
Looking back on their journey, Henriette shared how grateful they are to everyone involved. “The team of haematologists and surgeons were splendid, but without the life-giving blood, the story would have ended differently”. “We are beyond thankful to every one of you blood donors for giving and sharing your precious blood with Henry”.
Dr Kirby’s journey is a powerful reminder that every unit of donated blood is a chance at recovery and more time spent with loved ones, a chance at a future.
