Dr. Charles Drew’s research on blood plasma storage and shipment proved that blood could be stored for transfusions, and many of the processes he developed are still in use today. Among his innovations was the mobile blood donation station, later called "bloodmobiles."
Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (June 6, 2023) — The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is joining with Clark County Commissioner William McCurdy II to encourage blood donation at a blood drive honoring the birth of Dr. Charles Drew, a prominent African American physician and blood bank pioneer. The blood drive is on Saturday, June 10, at the Pearson Community Center, 1625 W. Carey Ave., 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“Through extensive medical research, Dr. Drew demonstrated that race alone does not determine the compatibility of blood transfusions between individuals of different ethnicities, which challenged previous misconceptions and fostered a more inclusive approach to medical care,” said Commissioner McCurdy. “Dr. Drew’s legacy lies not only in his breakthrough research, but also in his leadership promoting healthcare equality and racial justice.”
Saturday’s Dr. Charles Drew blood drive is sponsored by long-standing Red Cross partner Omega Psi Phi Fraternity to encourage minority blood donation, especially from the Black community, to help support patients with sickle cell disease. (Drew was a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.)
“One in three African Americans is a match for people with sickle cell, making them especially important blood donors for patients with the disease,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “Commissioner McCurdy and Omega Psi Phi are working with us to reach the needed donors for sickle cell patients, as well as encourage diversity in our blood supply,”
Blood transfusions are one of the most critical treatments for patients with chronic illnesses, such as sickle cell disease, explained Dr. Walter Kelley, Medical Director for the Rocky Mountain Division of the American Red Cross. “Transfusions provide healthy blood cells, unblocking blood vessels, delivering oxygen, and minimizing the crises sickle cell patients may face.”
Dr. Charles Drew
Born June 3, 1904, he was the medical director of the first Red Cross blood bank in 1941. Dr. Drew’s research around blood plasma storage and shipment proved that blood could be stored for transfusions, and many of the processes he developed are still in use today. Among his innovations was the mobile blood donation station, later called "bloodmobiles." He tragically died in a car accident in 1950.
Schedule an appointment today for the Dr. Charles Drew Blood Drive
Use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or visit redcrossblood.org and use sponsor code DrCharlesDrewLV, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Give blood by June 31, 2023, and receive a $10 gift card by email, and be automatically entered for a chance to win a backyard theater package, including a projector, screen and smokeless firepit. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/June.
Learn more about testing for sickle cell trait from self-identified Black blood donors and how the American Red Cross works to fight the disease at redcrossblood.org/sicklecell.
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 @RedCross.
