Australian Man Has Saved Over Two Million Lives With His Blood
James Harrison was found to have a certain antibody in his blood that can combat a pregnancy related disease, and helped save over two million lives in the process.
One man in Australia has helped save the lives of more than two million people by simply donating his blood.
In 1949, when James Harrison was 13, he underwent chest surgery. During it, three and a half gallons of blood had to be transfused.
After this, he vowed he would donate his own blood as a way to return the favor.
Once he began donating, an incredible discovery was made. Harrison's blood contained an antibody in his blood capable of treating Rhesus disease.
At the time, Rhesus was causing death or severe birth defects in tens of thousands of babies globally each year.
The disease occurs during pregnancy, and a test can be conducted early on to detect the presence of the Rhesus protein that leaves the baby and mother’s blood incompatible.
Harrison was asked to take part in various experiments which eventually led to the development of a Rhesus disease vaccine, known as Anti-D.
Along with blood, he also donates plasma, which can be given more frequently. Combined, Harrison estimates he's donated over 1000 times in the 57 years since he started.
Harrison even helped save his daughter, who needed an injection of Anti-D after giving birth to a son.
One man in Australia has helped save the lives of more than two million people by simply donating his blood.
In 1949, when James Harrison was 13, he underwent chest surgery. During it, three and a half gallons of blood had to be transfused.
After this, he vowed he would donate his own blood as a way to return the favor.
Once he began donating, an incredible discovery was made. Harrison's blood contained an antibody in his blood capable of treating Rhesus disease.
At the time, Rhesus was causing death or severe birth defects in tens of thousands of babies globally each year.
The disease occurs during pregnancy, and a test can be conducted early on to detect the presence of the Rhesus protein that leaves the baby and mother’s blood incompatible.
Harrison was asked to take part in various experiments which eventually led to the development of a Rhesus disease vaccine, known as Anti-D.
Along with blood, he also donates plasma, which can be given more frequently. Combined, Harrison estimates he's donated over 1000 times in the 57 years since he started.
Harrison even helped save his daughter, who needed an injection of Anti-D after giving birth to a son.
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