The loss of a pioneer in a key blood treatment
There are people who claim to be legends, but then there are those whose deeds prove it. One such person was James Harrison from Australia, famously known as the “Man with a Golden Arm.” He helped save the lives of more than 2.4 million babies before he sadly passed away at 88 years old.
For over sixty years, Harrison was recognized as one of the most important blood donors in the world. His blood contained a special life-saving antibody called Anti-D. Although it’s not completely clear how he got this antibody, some reports suggest it might be linked to a major blood transfusion he received when he was just 14.
Eventually, it was found that Harrison’s blood was full of this antibody, which could be used to create a medicine that protects newborns from Rhesus disease, also known as hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN).
James Harrison donating his blood rich in Anti-D (Australian Red Cross Lifeblood)
A really tough situation happens when a baby and their mom’s red blood cells don’t get along. The mom’s immune system mistakenly thinks the baby is a danger, so it sends out antibodies to fight against the baby. This can cause serious problems like brain damage, heart issues, or even death.
Starting at 18 years old in 1954, Harrison donated blood every two weeks until he was 81. He gave over 1,100 donations! His dedication even earned him a world record for the most plasma donated in 2005, a record he held until 2022 when someone from the U.S. broke it.
Harrison played a key role in creating anti-D treatments. Before these treatments, half of the babies with Rhesus disease would not survive. Thanks to the millions of anti-D doses, including 3 million that had Harrison’s contributions, many babies in Australia now have the chance to live happy and healthy lives.
James Harrison as he retired at age 81 (Australian Red Cross Lifeblood)
Harrison passed away peacefully in his sleep at Peninsula Village Nursing Home on February 17, and many people are thankful for what he did to help fight HDFN. One of those people is Tracey Mellowship, who is not only his daughter but also the mother of two grandchildren who received the anti-D immunizations thanks to him.
Mellowship shared, “He was really proud to have saved so many lives without causing any pain or charging anything. It made him happy to know that families like ours exist because of his generosity.”
“He always said it doesn’t hurt, and the life you save could be your own.”
Even though there are fewer than 200 anti-D donors in Australia, Red Cross Lifeblood explained that their donations help save over 45,000 mothers and babies every year.
Harrison’s lifelong kindness has left a “remarkable legacy,” and a member of the Lifeblood organization mentioned that he has challenged the Australian community to do even better. This is also why Harrison received the Medal of the Order of Australia in 1999, which is one of the highest honors in the country.
In the end, James Harrison’s story shows us that even in a world filled with bad things, the incredible generosity of just one person can create a huge impact.
Featured Image Credit: Australian Red Cross Lifeblood