Good Blood: A Doctor, a Donor, and the Incredible Breakthrough that Saved Millions of Babies

In 1951, a young boy named James Harrison received a life-saving blood transfusion. Years later, a doctor at Columbia University discovered that he was more comfortable in the lab than in the examination room. This led to the discovery of a cure for Rh disease, which saved millions of lives. Good Blood is a story of discovery, invention, and the everyday heroics that changed the health of women and babies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 08 September 2020
Publisher: Abrams

In 1951, a remarkable and uplifting story unfolded in Sydney, Australia, involving a fourteen-year-old boy named James Harrison. James was on the brink of death when he received a life-saving blood transfusion. However, it was only a few years later that a shy young doctor at Columbia University, Dr. John Gorman, realized his true calling lay in the laboratory rather than the examination room. Little did they know that their paths would cross and their lives would be forever intertwined.

In his bestselling book, "Good Blood," Julian Guthrie takes readers on a captivating journey through the race to cure a devastating affliction known as Rh disease. This disease haunted families, causing a mother's immune system to attack her unborn child. At the center of this story are two very different men, Dr. John Gorman in New York and the unassuming Australian, whose extraordinary blood and unwavering dedication to donating it would save millions of lives.

"Good Blood" takes us on a global expedition, spanning from Australia to America, from research laboratories to hospitals, and even into Sing Sing prison, where experimental blood trials were conducted. It is a tale of discovery and invention, exploring the progress and challenges of medicine while highlighting the everyday heroics that transformed the health of women and babies.

Dr. John Gorman, a brilliant yet contrarian scientist, emerged as a key player in this medical breakthrough. His innovative idea of using blood from animals to treat Rh disease was met with skepticism and opposition, but he persevered, driven by his unwavering commitment to finding a solution. His determination and brilliance led to the development of a treatment that saved countless lives and revolutionized the field of medicine.

On the other hand, we meet the Australian boy, James Harrison, who unknowingly played a pivotal role in this historic endeavor. His rare blood type, AB-positive, was a perfect match for those suffering from Rh disease. Despite his young age, James displayed an extraordinary courage and selflessness, donating his blood regularly to save the lives of others. His unwavering commitment and generosity touched the hearts of people around the world, and his story became an inspiration to many.

"Good Blood" weaves together the narratives of these two men, painting a vivid picture of the complexities and challenges of medical research. It sheds light on the ethical considerations and the political battles that often accompany scientific advancements. Through the triumphs and setbacks, the book underscores the profound impact that individuals can have on the world through their dedication and innovation.

In conclusion, "Good Blood" is a remarkable and uplifting story that captures the essence of human resilience, compassion, and scientific innovation. It reminds us of the power of teamwork, determination, and the pursuit of knowledge to change the course of history. The journey of Dr. John Gorman and James Harrison serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the boundless potential of medical breakthroughs.

Weight: 404g
Dimension: 149 x 217 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781419743313