Dr John Gorman’s pioneering medical research into the treatment of Rhesus disease has saved the lives of millions of babies around the world.
Australia has appointed Dr Gorman as an Honorary Companion of the Order of Australia in recognition of his exceptional achievements.
This is the foremost honour in the Australian honours system. It is awarded for eminent achievement and merit of the highest degree in service to Australia or humanity at large.
Rhesus disease is caused by blood incompatibility between a mother and her unborn child and once caused about one in ten neonatal deaths.
In the early 1960s, Dr Gorman and his colleagues discovered an Anti-D immunoglobin treatment for Rhesus negative mothers.
Thanks to this remarkable work, Rhesus disease is now virtually eliminated in the developed world.
Dr Gorman was born and raised in Australia. He completed his medical studies at the University of Melbourne, before continuing his research and medical practice in the United States of America, where he currently resides.
Ambassador Rudd presented the insignia to Dr Gorman at an investiture ceremony in California on 30 August this year. More information about Dr Gorman’s Honorary Appointment is available on the Governor-General’s website (PDF 178 KB).
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister Patrick Gorman
“I am thrilled that Dr Gorman’s extraordinary work and scientific legacy has been recognised.
“Dr Gorman gave the gift of life to millions. His determination to improve maternal healthcare is an inspiration to us all.”
“For nearly 60 years, mothers and their babies across the world have benefited from the research of Dr Gorman and his colleagues.
“Millions of lives have been saved thanks to this world changing work.”
“Australians are rightly proud of Dr Gorman’s achievements. He is an inspiration, and a sterling example of Australian innovation and scientific excellence.”