James Harrison, The Man Who Donated Blood Every Week For 60 Years And Saved The Lives Of Over 2.4 Million Babies Due To His Unusual Blood Type

Let's take it back to when James Christopher Harrison was just a 14-year-old boy.

He underwent a critical surgery that necessitated a blood transfusion, a procedure that proved to be lifesaving for him.

In 1954, the moment he celebrated his 18th birthday, James was quick to register as a blood donor, eager to give back in gratitude for the gift of life he had received.

It didn't take long for doctors to notice something extraordinary about his blood – it contained a rare and special antibody.

James Harrison donated blood for over 60 years. Credit: Australian Red Cross

Rhesus disease and how Harrison's blood helped fight it

Upon further examination, medical professionals discovered that the antibodies in Harrison's blood were exceptionally effective in combating disease, making it possible to produce a 'life-saving medication' known as Anti-D injections.

According to the NHS' website, "Anti-D immunoglobulin neutralizes any RhD positive antigens that may have entered the mother's blood during pregnancy."

The entry of RhD positive antigens into a mother's bloodstream can lead to Rhesus disease, a serious condition 'where antibodies in a pregnant woman's blood destroy her baby's blood cells', as explained by NIDirect.

This disease can make the baby anemic and lead to jaundice, though it does not harm the mother.

Jemma Falkenmire, an employee of the Australian Red Cross Blood Service, shared with CNN in 2015 how, before the benefits of Harrison's blood were known, "thousands of babies were dying each year in Australia, and doctors were at a loss to understand why. It was a devastating situation with women experiencing numerous miscarriages and babies being born with brain damage."

Putting Harrison's life-saving blood to work

Once it was understood how powerful Harrison's antibodies were, he began to donate plasma instead of whole blood.

This switch meant he could donate more frequently – as often as once every two weeks – and contribute even more to the New South Wales Rh Program, of which he was a pioneering donor.

The Red Cross Blood Service has noted that very few Australians possess the same life-saving antibodies as Harrison.

"Up until 2018, 'every batch of Anti-D ever made in Australia has come from James' blood," Falkenmire noted, emphasizing the unique value of his contributions. 

Falkenmire continued: "Every bag of blood is precious, but James’ blood is particularly extraordinary."

Harrison has saved over two million lives. Credit: Australian Red Cross

"[...] And more than 17 percent of women in Australia are at risk, so James has helped save a lot of lives."

The 'Man with the Golden Arm'

In an incredible twist of fate, one of the women to benefit from the Anti-D vaccine, derived from Harrison's blood's antibodies, was his own daughter.

"That led to my second grandson being born healthy," Harrison remarked, filled with pride. 

"And that makes you feel good yourself that you saved a life there, and you saved many more and that's great."

Affectionately known as the 'Man with the Golden Arm', Harrison has been honored with the Medal of the Order of Australia, a recognition for individuals who have shown remarkable achievement and service.

Although he had to stop donating in 2018 upon reaching the age limit of 81, his legacy is unmatched. 

His final donation marked his 1,173rd time giving blood, rounding off 63 years of continuous donations.

The Red Cross continues to seek new blood donors to carry on this vital work. They can be contacted at 131 495 or through their website at www.donateblood.com.au.