Charles Richard Drew was an African American physician, surgeon, and medical researcher who made significant contributions to the field of medicine. He is best known for his work in developing methods for the storage and preservation of blood plasma, which laid the foundation for modern blood banks.

Drew's pioneering research led to the establishment of the first blood bank during World War II, which played a critical role in saving the lives of wounded soldiers. His work helped to standardize the collection, storage, and transfusion of blood, leading to improved emergency medical care and the development of blood transfusion techniques that are still used today.

In addition to his groundbreaking work on blood plasma, Drew was a prominent figure in the early civil rights movement. He fought against racial segregation in the medical field, advocating for equal opportunities for African American physicians and patients. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of healthcare professionals and researchers to make a difference in the field of medicine.