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Dr. Charles R. Drew spent the final years of his life, dedicating himself to his work and his family.
1934 - 1950
Charles Drew's final years are defined by his tireless dedication to medicine and social justice. He spearheaded the establishment of the American Red Cross's blood bank and trained countless African American physicians and surgeons. His work received numerous accolades before his unfortunate death in 1950 at the age of 45 when he was killed in a car accident (Hallman 2004). Before his untimely death, he was given a blood transfusion at an all-white hospital, but they were unsuccessful in saving his life.
Tribute oil painting of Dr. Charles R. Drew done by artist T.A Charron
Sylvia Drew Ivie and Dr. Charles R. Drew in front of their apartment on Sherman Avenue, Washington DC, 1944
Legacy
Drew married Minnie Lenore Robbins in 1939. His legacy endures through their daughters, Dr. Charlene Drew Jarvis, Sylvia Drew Ivie, and Bebe Drew Price (Parker-Kelly and Hobbs 2019). His eldest daughter, Dr. Charlene Drew Jarvis, followed in his footsteps as a scientific researcher and educator. His innovations in blood banking and his contributions to advancing equality in medicine continue to save countless lives and inspire generations.
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