The Man Who Helped Save More Than Two Million Babies Has Died—And His Story Is Incredible

I have been following the story of James Harrison, AKA The Man with the Golden Arm, for several years now, and it remains one of the most heartwarming and awe-inspiring stories out there.

Harrison is the world's most famous blood donor. His blood contained a rare antibody called Anti-D, which is used to make a medication given to pregnant mothers whose blood is at risk of attacking their unborn babies. Without this treatment, countless infants could have been lost to hemolytic disease of the newborn, a severe and often fatal condition.

James Harrison's journey as a donor began after receiving transfusions himself during major chest surgery at the age of 14, After which He pledged to give back, and when he turned 18, he started donating blood plasma every two weeks—a routine he kept up for over six decades, until he was 81.

By 2005, he held the world record for most blood plasma donations—a title he retained until 2022, when an American donor surpassed him. Though the exact reason behind his unique antibody-rich blood is unknown, some reports suggest it might be linked to the massive blood transfusion he received as a teenager. What is clear, however, is the impact of his generosity: It's estimated that his donations helped save the lives of over 2.4 million babies.

James Harrison passed away peacefully in his sleep at a nursing home in New South Wales, Australia, on February 17, at the age of 88. His legacy, however, will live on in the countless lives he helped save.