Black History Month is a time to reflect on the leaders whose courage, brilliance, innovation, and dedication reshaped our world. At We Are Blood, our mission is deeply connected to one such pioneer: Dr. Charles Drew, a physician and scientist whose work forever changed how blood is collected, stored, and shared to save lives.
Long before blood drives became a community staple, Dr. Drew envisioned a system where life-saving blood could be preserved, transported, and made available whenever and wherever it was needed. His groundbreaking research didn’t just advance medicine – it created a pathway for millions of people to survive trauma, surgery, and illness.
Innovation Born from Purpose
Dr. Drew’s work centered on blood plasma, the component of blood that carries vital proteins and nutrients. He discovered that plasma could be stored safely for longer periods than whole blood, making it possible to build reliable blood supplies on a large scale. This discovery laid the groundwork for modern blood banking and transformed emergency care across the globe.
What makes Dr. Drew’s story especially powerful is that his innovations were driven by service. During World War II, his expertise helped establish large-scale blood collection efforts that delivered plasma to wounded soldiers and civilians overseas. These systems became models for blood programs that still exist today, including the mobile blood drives that bring donation opportunities directly into our communities.
A Voice for Science and Equity in Medicine
Dr. Drew believed in science and fairness. At a time when racial segregation was enforced throughout American society, he challenged the practice of separating blood donations by race. When asked to support policies that contradicted medical evidence, he chose integrity to science over position.
His decision to stand against discrimination reminds us that progress in healthcare requires both innovation and courage. Dr. Drew’s legacy is one of discovery and advocacy – proof that ethical leadership can leave a lasting imprint on generations to come.
His Long-Lasting Influence
Every blood donation today carries forward Dr. Drew’s vision: that access to life-saving care should be timely, safe, and grounded in science. His work continues to inspire medical professionals and blood donors alike, reminding us that scientific discovery and compassion can be intertwined. The systems he helped create allow organizations like We Are Blood to respond to emergencies in partnership with regional EMS agencies, support local hospitals, and care for patients across Central Texas every single day.
As we honor Dr. Charles Drew this Black History Month, we also celebrate the donors, volunteers, and advocates who further our mission. Each donation is a reminder that one person’s commitment can change countless lives.
Celebrate with Us
Dr. Drew’s legacy is a powerful reminder that every donation matters, and that building a robust and diverse blood donor community helps ensure life-saving treatments are available to patients of all backgrounds.
Like Drew, We Are Blood believes in the power of collective action – neighbors helping neighbors.
Join us this February as we continue building on a future he helped make possible. We invite you to roll up your sleeve and donate, start volunteering, spread awareness, or encourage others to get involved in protecting the community’s blood supply.