James Harrison, the ‘Man with the Golden Arm,’ passes away at 88

James Harrison, the Australian blood donor credited with saving 2.4 million babies, has passed away at the age of 88. He took his last breath on February 17 in a nursing home in New South Wales, his family confirmed.

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Harrison earned the title ‘Man with the Golden Arm’ due to the presence of a rare Anti-D antibody in his blood, which played a crucial role in preventing Rh disease in newborns. His plasma was used to create Anti-D injections, given to pregnant women at risk of developing harmful antibodies that could attack their unborn babies.

His journey as a lifesaving donor began after he underwent major chest surgery as a teenager. Receiving multiple blood transfusions during his recovery, he made a promise to give back. At 18, he started donating blood and continued almost every week for six decades, making him one of the most dedicated blood donors in history.

Though health regulations led to his retirement from donating at 81, Harrison’s remarkable contribution lives on. The Australian Red Cross and the medical community recognized his immense impact on saving lives.

His legacy is a testament to human kindness, proving that one person’s selfless commitment can change the lives of millions.