James Harrison looks at 8-month-old Layla and her mother, Beth Ismay, in Sydney, Australia, in May 2018. It was the last time Harrison donated blood. Subel Bhandari/Picture Alliance via Getty Images
The Power of Preparedness: Lessons from the “Man with the Golden Arm”
James Harrison, known as the “Man with the Golden Arm,” is credited with saving over two million babies through his extraordinary commitment to blood donation. Over six decades, his plasma helped develop treatments for Rhesus disease, a condition that can cause life-threatening anemia in newborns. His story is a testament to the incredible impact one person can have simply by being prepared and willing to act in a time of need.
While few of us will have the chance to change lives in the way Harrison did, his story serves as a reminder that lifesaving moments happen all around us. Emergencies—whether in the workplace, at home, or in the outdoors—often occur without warning. The difference between tragedy and survival often comes down to the actions of those nearby.
Having the knowledge and confidence to step in during a crisis can make all the difference. Whether it’s knowing how to perform CPR, respond to a workplace injury, or provide first aid in the wilderness, being prepared empowers everyday people to save lives in critical moments. Harrison’s story is inspiring, not just because of what he did, but because it underscores the power of individual action in protecting and preserving life.
His legacy is a call to action: we can all take steps to be ready. Whether through learning basic first aid, understanding emergency procedures, or simply being more aware of the ways we can help others, preparedness is something that benefits everyone. We may never know when we’ll be in a position to make a difference, but like Harrison, we can choose to be ready when the moment comes.
Read more about James Harrison’s story in the original NPR article here.
For those looking to gain lifesaving skills and confidence in emergency situations, organizations like Safety Training Pros provide training in CPR, first aid, and wilderness medicine—helping individuals and businesses be prepared when it matters most.