James Harrison, the Australian man whose blood donations saved over 2.4 million babies, has passed away at the age of 88. Known as the “Man with the Golden Arm,” Harrison made 1,173 plasma donations over six decades, helping prevent a deadly disease in newborns.
A Life-Changing Surgery Sparked His Mission
Born on December 27, 1936, in Junee, New South Wales, Harrison’s journey as a donor began with a personal experience. At just 14 years old, he underwent major chest surgery, requiring 13 units of blood. The generosity of strangers saved his life, and he vowed to become a blood donor once he was old enough.
Despite having a fear of needles, Harrison kept his promise, donating blood for the first time at 18. What followed would change medical history.
A Rare Blood Type That Saved Millions
Doctors soon discovered that Harrison’s blood contained a rare antibody known as Anti-D, which was used to develop a life-saving injection for pregnant women. This injection, known as Anti-D immunoglobulin, prevents Rhesus disease—a condition that can cause miscarriages, stillbirths, or severe health issues in newborns.
Before this treatment, thousands of babies died each year in Australia due to Rh incompatibility between the mother’s and baby’s blood types. Harrison’s consistent plasma donations were instrumental in creating and maintaining this vital medication.
Record-Breaking Blood Donations
Over 60 years, Harrison donated almost every week, ultimately reaching 1,173 donations. His generosity directly contributed to saving millions of lives, including his own grandchildren—his daughter Tracey received the Anti-D injections during her pregnancies.
In 2018, at 81 years old, Harrison made his final donation, retiring due to age restrictions in Australian blood donation guidelines. His selflessness and dedication made him one of the world’s most prolific blood donors.
A Nation Honors His Legacy
Harrison’s contributions were recognized with numerous awards, including the Medal of the Order of Australia in 1999. However, his greatest reward, he often said, was knowing he had helped save lives.
His passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes, with many Australians remembering him as a national hero and an inspiration. The Australian Red Cross Blood Service described him as “a true legend”, encouraging others to continue his mission by becoming blood donors.
A Lasting Impact
James Harrison is survived by his daughter, Tracey, and grandsons, Jarrod and Scott. His family, along with the millions of families he helped save, mourns his passing while celebrating a life that was dedicated to selflessness, kindness, and humanity.
Though he is no longer with us, his legacy will live on, reminding the world that one person’s generosity can indeed change millions of lives.
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