“In honor of Mark and the 12th year since his passing, our family would again like to give back to those in need of blood transfusions, including patients fighting cancer or other illnesses,” said Lee Sibbald, Vasquez’s wife.
LOS ANGELES (May 10, 2023) — Mark Vasquez joined the Manhattan Beach Police Department in 2005 and worked in patrol until 2007 when he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a blood cancer. Throughout his valiant battle with multiple myeloma, Vasquez maintained a positive outlook and was unwaveringly committed to his family and work. His fellow officers nicknamed Vasquez, “Superman.” Unfortunately, Manhattan Beach lost its Superman on May 15, 2011.
The Manhattan Beach Police Officers’ Association, in partnership with the American Red Cross and the family of Manhattan Beach Police Officer Mark Vasquez, presents the 12th Annual Mark Vasquez Memorial Event Blood Drive on May 22. Over the last 12 years, every May, Vasquez’s wife, and their two daughters, along with friends and colleagues, gather to remember his larger-than-life personality and commitment to serving his community by holding an annual blood drive in his memory. Since its inception, the blood drive has collected more than 994 pints of blood.
“In honor of Mark and the 12th year since his passing, our family would again like to give back to those in need of blood transfusions, including patients fighting cancer or other illnesses,” said Lee Sibbald, Vasquez’s wife. “In memory of our Superman, we're giving blood and asking the community to join us. Your generosity could help save a life.”
Join the Manhattan Beach Police Officers’ Association, the family of Vasquez and the American Red Cross to honor this hometown hero and donate blood at the upcoming blood drive.
Donate blood in memory of Mark Vasquez
Monday, May 22, 2023
9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Joslyn Community Center Room
1601 N Valley Drive
Manhattan Beach
Come to give blood, platelets or plasma May 20-31 and get an exclusive American Red Cross beach towel, while supplies last. Plus, all who come to give in May will also automatically be entered for a chance to win a trip for two to the 2023 MLB® All-Star Game® in Seattle. Additional information details and terms are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Team
To give blood in memory of Mark Vasquez simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) and use sponsor code MarkVasquez to make an appointment.
How to donate blood
All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit RedCross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCrossLA.