Charles R. Drew (1904-1950): A Pioneer of Blood Banking.

Dr. Charles Richard Drew, a pioneering figure in modern blood banking and 20th-century medicine, revolutionized blood donation and storage processes, fundamentally shaping the field as we know it today. His extensive work with blood and plasma, combined with an innovative approach to reducing contamination, laid the foundation for modern standards in safety and efficiency. His efforts were instrumental in creating blood banks that supported soldiers during World War II. Beyond his scientific contributions, Dr. Drew was a tireless advocate for racial equality, challenging the widespread discrimination and segregation of his time, and paving the way for greater representation of Black physicians in the medical profession. This article is a historical vignette on Dr. Charles R. Drew, exploring his transformative impact on science, medicine, and social justice.