LOS ANGELES, May 9, 2023 —Manhattan Beach Police Department officer Mark Vasquez was unwaveringly committed to his family and work. Referred to by his fellow officers as “Superman,” Vasquez worked patrol from 2005 until 2007 when he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a blood cancer. 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 13th Annual Mark Vasquez Memorial Event Blood Drive on May 22. Over the last 13 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. The drive has collected more than 400 units of blood products since 2011.

“In the spirit of Mark’s commitment to the community, every year since his passing our family is honored to give back to those in need of blood transfusions,” said Lee Sibbald, Vasquez’s wife. “In memory of our Superman, we're giving blood and asking the community to join us.”

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

Wednesday, May 22, 2023
9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Joslyn Community Center Room

1601 N Valley Drive

Manhattan Beach

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 comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCrossLA.