If we lose a lot of blood in surgery or an accident, we need more of it-fast. Red blood cells carry oxygen to all the cells and tissues in our body. In 50 years, researchers have turned up only 40 or so other people on the planet with the same precious, lifesaving blood in their veins. Very few people in the world knew his blood type did-could-exist. Surely it was impossible for this man seated beside her to be alive, let alone apparently healthy? But when she read the details closely, her eyes widened. The nurse in Annemasse, France, could tell from the label on the blood bag destined for Paris that this blood was pretty unusual.

It was quicker that way: If the man donated in Switzerland, his blood would be delayed while paperwork was filled out and authorizations sought.