Close Menu
News JournosNews Journos
  • World
  • U.S. News
  • Business
  • Politics
  • Europe News
  • Finance
  • Turkey Reports
  • Money Watch
  • Health
Editors Picks

Trump Speaks at Joint Session of Congress

March 4, 2025

Former Virginia U.S. Attorney Found Dead at 43

March 23, 2025

Trump and Zelenskyy Hold Talks Amid Ongoing Ukraine Crisis

February 28, 2025

Trump and Rubio Plan Overhaul of National Security Council

May 23, 2025

Trump Assassination Suspect’s Defense Challenges DOJ Evidence Ahead of Trial

March 7, 2025
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
Latest Headlines:
  • Trump Accuses Israel and Iran of Ceasefire Violations, Calls for Halt to Bombing
  • Tech Companies Step Back from LGBTQ+ Events as Major Player Exits SF Pride 2025
  • Military Experts Assess Iran’s Reduced Strike Capability Following Recent Attacks
  • Jury Awards $500,000 to Family of Officer Who Died by Suicide After Capitol Riot Assault
  • Humanoid Robots Enhance Quality Checks and Assembly in Automotive Manufacturing
  • Health Insurers Aim to Simplify Prior Authorization for Faster Care Access
  • Democrats to Select New Ranking Member for House Oversight Committee Following Rep. Connolly’s Passing
  • OpenAI Removes Jony Ive Partnership Details Following Trademark Ruling
  • Trump Joins NATO Summit as Allies Commit to Increased Defense Spending
  • Trump Attends NATO Summit Amid Iran Tensions
  • Trump’s Economic Bill Expected to Pass Before Congressional Recess
  • Texas Teacher Recognized with $100,000 Award for Innovative Speech Program
  • Mass Detention of Soldiers in FETÖ Operation for National Security
  • Trump Claims Iran Provided Advance Warning of Counterstrikes on U.S. Base in Qatar
  • Oil Prices Fall, Stocks Rise Following Israel-Iran Ceasefire Announcement
  • Colbert Challenges NYC Mayoral Candidate on Israel and Antisemitism
  • Utility Workers Uncover 1,000-Year-Old Child Mummy During Pipe Installation in Peru
  • Super Micro Shares Decline After $2 Billion Convertible Debt Offering
  • Israel Targets Iran’s Fordow Nuclear Site Following US B-2 Strike
  • Timeline of the Blaze Bernstein Murder Case
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
News JournosNews Journos
Subscribe
Tuesday, June 24
  • World
  • U.S. News
  • Business
  • Politics
  • Europe News
  • Finance
  • Turkey Reports
  • Money Watch
  • Health
News JournosNews Journos
You are here: News Journos » Health » James Harrison, Known for Saving Millions of Babies Through Blood Plasma Donations, Passes Away at 88
James Harrison, Known for Saving Millions of Babies Through Blood Plasma Donations, Passes Away at 88

James Harrison, Known for Saving Millions of Babies Through Blood Plasma Donations, Passes Away at 88

News EditorBy News EditorMarch 5, 2025 Health 6 Mins Read

An extraordinary man known as the “Man with the Golden Arm” has passed away at age 88, leaving behind a legacy of life-saving blood plasma donations. James Harrison, an Australian retiree, was credited with helping save an estimated 2.4 million babies over the course of six decades, thanks to his rare plasma, which contained a unique antibody essential for treating hemolytic disease in newborns. His contributions to blood donation have not only changed countless lives but have also sparked discussions about the importance of plasma donation and the need for more donors in Australia.

Article Subheadings
1) Life and Legacy of James Harrison
2) Impact of Harrison’s Donations
3) Why Anti-D is Vital
4) The Detection of Anti-D in Harrison
5) Reflections and Tributes

Life and Legacy of James Harrison

Born in New South Wales in 1936, James Harrison became known for his remarkable contributions to blood plasma donation after undergoing a major lung surgery at the age of 14. Jarrod Mellowship, his grandson, recounted that after Harrison’s surgery, his father reminded him of the lifesaving impact of blood donations, which sparked a lifelong commitment to giving back through blood donation. Turning 18 marked a critical moment for Harrison, who began donating plasma with the intent of helping others.

During his illustrious donation career that spanned over six decades, Harrison made a total of 1,173 donations, despite a personal aversion to needles. His steadfast dedication not only set a world record for the most blood plasma donations but also captured the attention of the medical community and the public alike. In 2005, he was recognized by the Guinness World Records, a testament to his impressive commitment, which he accepted with humility and grace. Harrison retired from donating plasma in 2018 at the age of 81.

Impact of Harrison’s Donations

The impact of Harrison’s donations has been profound. His plasma contained the rare anti-D antibody, necessary for treatment against hemolytic disease of the newborn—an affliction that occurs when a pregnant mother’s immune system attacks the red blood cells of her fetus. This condition is particularly dangerous for Rh-negative mothers carrying Rh-positive babies, affecting countless women each year in Australia.

Currently, Australia has only about 200 active donors of anti-D plasma, making Harrison’s contributions even more significant. As a result of his efforts, roughly 45,000 mothers and their babies receive life-saving treatment annually. Harrison’s legacy touches not just the lives of those directly treated but also the entire healthcare system, demonstrating the critical role that plasma donors play in saving lives.

Why Anti-D is Vital

The need for anti-D blood plasma arises from the serious nature of hemolytic disease of the newborn. This condition mainly affects situations where the mother’s Rh factor is negative and the fetus’s Rh factor is positive, leading to potential complications and risks during pregnancy. If untreated, this disease can result in severe anemia, jaundice, and even death in newborns.

The Australian Red Cross Blood Service, known as Lifeblood, has stated that anti-D injections, derived from plasma donations like those from Harrison, are essential for preventing this condition. Since the antibody’s active application in the 1960s, the medical community has made significant advances, but the donation of plasma containing anti-D remains critical. Harrison’s contributions have been a linchpin in this effort, providing the essential resource needed by health professionals to protect maternal and fetal health.

The Detection of Anti-D in Harrison

The reason Harrison possessed such high concentrations of the rare anti-D antibody is intricately tied to his past medical history. There’s speculation that Harrison developed his unique blood constituent after receiving multiple blood transfusions during his lung surgery at a young age. Following this traumatic experience, the presence of anti-D in his plasma may have provided him with a unique advantage as a donor.

This connection highlights the unexpected ways in which personal health trials can transform into societal benefits. Harrison’s donations not only stemmed from a willingness to help others but also from a personal understanding of the vital role that blood donations play in survival—a notion instilled in him early on by his family. His dedication showcases how simple acts of giving can lead to monumental impact.

Reflections and Tributes

The news of Harrison’s passing on February 17, as shared by his grandson, has prompted outpourings of tributes across both Australia and the global community. The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood praised him as a “remarkable, stoically kind and generous person,” emphasizing the significance of his lifetime dedication to altruism. Lifeblood’s chief executive, Stephen Cornelissen, noted that Harrison had hoped his record would one day be surpassed, a reflection of his humble nature and belief in the collective power of donors.

Harrison’s family, including his daughter and grandchildren, has spoken about the personal impact of his contributions, noting how their own lives—and the lives of many others—were touched by his selfless acts. These personal anecdotes bring to light not only his legacy as a blood donor but also as a loving family man whose influence will forever resonate within his family and the community.

No. Key Points
1 James Harrison made over 1,173 blood plasma donations from 1954 until his retirement in 2018.
2 His plasma contained a rare antibody called anti-D, crucial for treating hemolytic disease of the newborn.
3 Harrison’s donations have reportedly saved approximately 2.4 million babies during his lifetime.
4 Despite his fear of needles, Harrison was dedicated to donating blood for over 60 years.
5 His legacy continues to inspire conversations about the importance of blood and plasma donation.

Summary

James Harrison’s passing marks the end of an era for blood donation in Australia, where his selfless contributions saved millions of lives. Through his lifelong commitment and groundbreaking achievements in plasma donation, he not only raised awareness about the importance of blood donation but also set a standard for future generations of donors. His legacy will continue to resonate in the field of healthcare, reminding society of the profound impact one individual can have in the fight for life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What inspired James Harrison to start donating plasma?

Harrison was inspired to donate plasma after undergoing significant medical procedures that highlighted the importance of blood donation. His father’s words following Harrison’s lung surgery also motivated him to dedicate his life to helping others through blood donations.

Question: How is the anti-D antibody used in medical treatments?

The anti-D antibody is primarily used to treat Rh-negative mothers during pregnancy. Administering anti-D injections to these mothers prevents their immune systems from attacking the red blood cells of their Rh-positive babies, thereby avoiding hemolytic disease of the newborn.

Question: What is the current status of plasma donation efforts in Australia?

Australia relies on a limited number of anti-D plasma donors, approximately 200 in total, to support the treatment of roughly 45,000 mothers and babies each year. The contributions from donors like James Harrison are critical in addressing the ongoing need for plasma-derived medicines.

Babies blood Chronic Illness Clinical Trials Disease Prevention Donations Exercise Routines Fitness Harrison Health Technology Health Tips Healthcare Policy Healthcare Reform Healthy Eating Healthy Lifestyle Immunization James Medical Research Mental Health Mental Wellbeing Millions Nutrition Passes Patient Care Plasma Public Health Saving Stress Management Wellness
Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Email Reddit WhatsApp Copy Link Bluesky
News Editor
  • Website

As the News Editor at News Journos, I am dedicated to curating and delivering the latest and most impactful stories across business, finance, politics, technology, and global affairs. With a commitment to journalistic integrity, we provide breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert insights to keep our readers informed in an ever-changing world. News Journos is your go-to independent news source, ensuring fast, accurate, and reliable reporting on the topics that matter most.

Keep Reading

Health

Novo Nordisk Suspends Wegovy Sales Amid Marketing Concerns

5 Mins Read
Health

Federal Judge Overturns Cuts to NIH Research Grants Tied to Diversity and Gender

6 Mins Read
Health

CDC Reports Over 3% of Measles Cases in Vaccinated Individuals This Year

6 Mins Read
Health

GOP Proposes Work Requirements for Food Stamps and Medicaid Recipients Up to Age 64, Experts Skeptical of Effectiveness

5 Mins Read
Health

CDC Official Resigns Amid Controversy Over COVID Hospitalization Data and Vaccine Orders

6 Mins Read
Health

CDC Advises Summer Camps to Verify Measles Immunity Amidst Rising Cases

5 Mins Read
Mr Serdar Avatar

Serdar Imren

News Director

Facebook Twitter Instagram
Journalism Under Siege
Editors Picks

Trump Uses Alien Enemies Act to Address Violent Illegal Immigrant Gangs

March 15, 2025

Trump Announces Pardon for Sheriff Convicted of Bribery

May 26, 2025

Trump Displays Mugshot Posters of Deported Violent Criminals on White House Lawn Amid Other Major Headlines

April 28, 2025

Trump Welcomes Elon Musk and DOGE in Oval Office, Signals Future Collaboration After Departure

May 31, 2025

Pope Francis’ Legacy with U.S. Leaders: A Retrospective

April 21, 2025

Subscribe to News

Get the latest sports news from NewsSite about world, sports and politics.

Facebook X (Twitter) Pinterest Vimeo WhatsApp TikTok Instagram

News

  • World
  • U.S. News
  • Business
  • Politics
  • Europe News
  • Finance
  • Money Watch

Journos

  • Top Stories
  • Turkey Reports
  • Health
  • Tech
  • Sports
  • Entertainment

COMPANY

  • About Us
  • Get In Touch
  • Our Authors
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Accessibility

Subscribe to Updates

Get the latest creative news from FooBar about art, design and business.

© 2025 The News Journos. Designed by The News Journos.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

Ad Blocker Enabled!
Ad Blocker Enabled!
Our website is made possible by displaying online advertisements to our visitors. Please support us by disabling your Ad Blocker.