Dr. Charles Drew was born on March 3, 1904, in Washington, DC. He was the eldest of five children in a middle-class African American family. From a young age, he excelled in academics and sports, earning a scholarship to attend Amherst College, where he studied pre-med and was a star athlete.
After graduating from Amherst, Drew went on to attend McGill University in Montreal, Canada, where he received his Doctor of Medicine and Master of Surgery degrees. He later completed a residency at Columbia University in New York City, specializing in surgery. Drew quickly gained recognition for his skill and innovation in the field of medicine.
During World War II, Drew was appointed as the Director of the first-ever American Red Cross Blood Bank. This groundbreaking initiative revolutionized the field of medicine and saved countless lives. Drew's work in blood banking not only significantly improved medical practices during wartime but also laid the foundation for modern blood donation and transfusion systems.
Despite his groundbreaking achievements, Drew faced significant challenges and discrimination due to his race. He was a vocal advocate against racial segregation in blood donation, highlighting the lack of scientific basis for such practices. His advocacy ultimately led to his dismissal from his position, but Drew remained steadfast in his beliefs and continued to fight for equality throughout his career.
In 1939, Drew married Minnie Lenore Robbins, a professor of Home Economics at Spelman College. The couple had three daughters and one son, and Drew's family life was a source of love and support throughout his career.
Dr. Charles Drew's legacy as a pioneering surgeon and advocate for equality in medicine continues to inspire generations of medical professionals. His contributions to blood banking and transfusion medicine have saved countless lives and revolutionized the field of healthcare. Drew's commitment to excellence and innovation serves as a shining example for future generations to follow.
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