Dr. Charles Drew was a prominent Black physician, surgeon, and medical researcher who made significant contributions to the field of blood banking and transfusion medicine. He was born on June 3, 1904, in Washington, D.C. and grew up in a racially segregated society.

Dr. Drew's groundbreaking work in the use of blood plasma for transfusions during World War II saved countless lives and laid the foundation for modern blood banks. He established the first large-scale blood bank in the United States and developed innovative techniques for storing and preserving blood plasma, which made it possible to transport and use blood for transfusions in medical emergencies.

Despite his achievements and expertise, Dr. Drew faced racial discrimination in his career, including being barred from certain medical institutions and segregated blood donation centers. He was a vocal advocate for equality in healthcare and fought against racial segregation in the medical field.

Tragically, Dr. Charles Drew died in a car accident on April 1, 1950, at the age of 45. His legacy continues to inspire generations of Black medical professionals and researchers, and his contributions to blood banking and transfusion medicine have had a lasting impact on the field of healthcare.