“It’s one of my talents, probably my only talent, is that I can be a blood donor.” James Harrison said these words on the occasion of his final donation. He was 81 years old, and throughout his life, he was known as the “man with the golden arm.” Seven years later, on February 17th, 2025, he died at age 88.
Harrison’s plasma was rich in Anti-D (Rh) antibodies, which are essential for producing Anti-D Immunoglobulins for the prevention of Rh sensitization. A condition which, in women with Rh negative blood group, can lead to Hemolytic Disease of the Fetus and Newborn (HDFN), often fatal to a fetus or newborn. It can also result in miscarriage, stillbirth, early post-natal death and life-long disabilities in surviving babies.
Thanks to what he considered his only talent, he helped save 2.4 million babies by donating every two weeks for over 60 years.
As a company specializing in the development and production of plasma-derived therapies and with a strong commitment to maternal-fetal health, we would like to pay tribute to the story and life of this extraordinary man, a symbol and example of generosity who dedicated his life to helping so many children and mothers.
His legacy will always inspire all those working in our sector. Mindful of this Kedrion continues to work, responsibly and with dedication, to guarantee that an ever-increasing number of patients have access to the plasma-derived therapies they require.
