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James Harrison, affectionately known as “the man with the golden arm,” has passed away at the age of 88. Recognized by the Australian Red Cross as the most prolific blood and plasma donor globally, Harrison’s contributions to the medical community are remarkable.
Harrison’s plasma uniquely contained the rare antibody known as Anti-D, or the Rhesus D antibody. This antibody is critical in creating medication for mothers whose blood types may pose a risk to their infants during pregnancy, particularly when there is an RH factor incompatibility. Over his lifetime, Harrison donated plasma 1,173 times, a feat attributed to saving approximately 2.4 million Australian babies, as reported by the Red Cross.
He passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 17, leaving behind a legacy that extends beyond his personal achievements.
His daughter, Tracey Mellowship, reflected on her father’s life, stating, “James was a humanitarian at heart, but also very funny.” She expressed her pride in Harrison’s role as a great-grandfather, sharing how his contributions were vital not just to the community but directly impacted their family’s existence, highlighting the personal stakes associated with blood donation.
Harrison’s journey as a donor began at age 18 in 1954, continuing until his retirement in 2018 at age 81. In a poignant interview with CBC Radio’s As It Happens, he discussed his final donation, describing the experience as “heart-wrenching” and noting the personal connections he made through his contributions. “It was the end of an era,” he remarked, recalling how grateful families expressed their gratitude for the lives he unknowingly influenced.
Significance of the Anti-D Antibody
Harrison’s decision to start donating blood was motivated by his experience receiving multiple transfusions following a lung surgery in his youth. Shortly after he began donating, medical professionals recognized that his plasma possessed unique characteristics. The significance of Anti-D in maternal healthcare cannot be overstated, as it is essential for women with RH-negative blood when carrying an RH-positive child. If untreated, this incompatibility can lead to severe complications, including hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN), which poses serious risks to the child, as noted by Canadian Blood Services.
Lifeblood’s CEO, Stephen Cornelissen, emphasized Harrison’s altruism, stating, “James extended his arm to help others and babies he would never know a remarkable 1,173 times and expected nothing in return.” Harrison’s unwavering commitment to donating, even in the face of personal loss, notably after the passing of his wife, is a testament to his character.
Harrison’s personal connection to the impacts of blood donation was also profound, as his daughter required Anti-D treatment due to her own blood type complications when pregnant. He reflected, “I’ve seen the result, because my grandson is now 23 years old and at university,” emphasizing the direct effects of his donations.
Throughout his interviews, Harrison openly admitted his fear of needles, choosing to focus on the ceiling or distract himself during the procedure. He underscored that the process was seamless, which made it easier for him to continue his commitment. In Australia, around 200 donors provide Anti-D antibodies to assist approximately 45,000 babies annually, as per the records of the Australian Red Cross, highlighting the ongoing need for similar contributions in the community.
Source
www.cbc.ca