Red Cross Archives

James Harrison, Australian blood donor whose ‘golden arm’ helped save 2.4 million babies, dies at 88

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — James Harrison, who was credited with saving 2.4 million babies through blood plasma donations over six decades, has died at 88. Harrison’s plasma contained an antibody that helped protect fetuses and newborns from a rare disease. Harrison made 1,173 donations from age 18 until he was forced to retire at age 81. His record was recognized by Guinness World Records in 2005 and stood until 2022. His grandson said Harrison died in a nursing home in Australia’s New South Wales state on Feb. 17. The Australian Red Cross Blood Service said Harrison was known as the “Man with the Golden Arm.”… Continue Reading

Marion community rallies to rebuild after Hurricane Helene

Two weeks after Hurricane Helene ravaged western North Carolina, the community is still reeling from its unexpected destruction. Many residents were caught off guard by the severity of the storm, leaving homes and businesses unprepared for the devastating floodwaters that followed. In the wake of heavy winds and thunderstorms that preceded the hurricane, rivers and streams overflowed, inundating mountain towns. The deluge swept away trees, cars, and homes, leaving a trail of devastation. Now, relief organizations and local businesses are coming together to help the community start the long process of rebuilding.… Continue Reading

Red Cross deploys more than 600 volunteers to aid disaster relief in western North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C. (WPTF) — As the aftermath of devastating flooding from Hurricane Helene continues to affect western North Carolina, more than 600 volunteers from across the country have mobilized to provide critical disaster relief. Heather Frazee, Executive Director of the American Red Cross’ Piedmont Triad Chapter, recently told Carolina Newsmakers host Don Curtis that the immediate focus of the relief operations is providing shelter, food, and basic necessities to those displaced by the flooding. Frazee also noted the challenging terrain in the mountains, compounded by road closures and dangerous conditions, which has made rescue and relief efforts more complex.… Continue Reading