Original Repository: Howard University. Moorland-Spingarn Research Center. Charles R. Drew Papers)
January is National Blood Donor Month. The Grand Rapids African American Health Institute (GRAAHI) is marking the month by following in the footsteps of two heroes for life, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Dr. Charles Richard Drew, by holding a blood drive at Brown-Hutcherson Ministries in Grand Rapids.
The event will be from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p. Jan. 21 at the Brown-Hutcherson Ministries, 618 Jefferson Ave. SE.
While the work of Dr. King is well documented, many people are unaware of Dr. Drew’s impact. He laid the groundwork for today’s modern blood donation program. Under his leadership, the American Red Cross blood bank program began in 1940, and Dr. Drew became the organization’s first medical director in 1941.
“He was a surgeon, educator, scientist and the first African-American blood specialist who helped shape the blood services industry,” said Vanessa Greene, CEO of GRAAHI. “His legacy is far-reaching. We hope this drive helps educate the community about his work and the need for a diverse blood supply.”
Because blood type is inherited, a compatible donor is often someone of a similar ethnic background. Therefore, diversity in donations is important for improved patient outcomes, as rare and uncommon blood types are often found in similar ethnic populations. We encourage everyone to become a “Hero for Life” by giving blood and supporting our community.
To sign up to donate, and learn more about Dr. Drew, go to graahi.com/giveblood.
