Located on the western edge of Pompano Beach (1000 NW 31st Avenue) is Charles Drew Elementary School. Thousands of people pass the school every day, and probably few know the origins of the school's name.

Charles Richard Drew achieved fame for inventing the concept of a blood bank. He created a system for the storing of blood plasma that revolutionized medical treatment. Drew was able to put his developments into practice almost immediately during World War II. He organized the world's first blood bank project - Blood for Britain. He also established the American Red Cross Blood Bank, of which he was the first director.

Dr. Drew died accidentally at age 45. His death resulted in a number of rumors as to whether or not he was denied adequate care:

Charles Drew died on April 1, 1950 when the automobile he was driving went out of control and turned over. Drew suffered extensive massive injuries but contrary to popular legend was not denied a blood transfusion by an all-White hospital - he indeed received a transfusion but was beyond the help of the experienced physicians attending to him. His family later wrote letters to those physicians thanking them for the care they provided. Over the years, Drew has been considered one of the most honored and respected figures in the medical field and his development of the blood plasma bank has given a second chance of live to millions.

In 1981 the U.S. Postal Service issued a stamp honoring Charles Drew.

Online biographies of Charles Drew can be found at the following sites:

Charles R. Drew (Gale Resources)

Charles Richard Drew (Great Idea Finder)

Charles Richard Drew: Physician, Surgeon (Princeton)