Black History Month: A Spotlight on Charles Drew, Henrietta Lacks, Harold Moody and Elizabeth Anionwu
As discussed in our last post, at Innovative Trials, we are passionate about representing our wonderfully diverse population within medical research, and we are taking action this month by taking the time out to learn and understand black history.
To follow on from our first Black History Month blog which introduced our commitment to celebrating healthcare pioneers over the month, this week we delve into the lives of Charles Drew, Henrietta Lacks, Harold Moody and Elizabeth Anionwu who have all made outstanding contributions to healthcare and history.
A spotlight on Charles Drew
A celebration of the life of Charles Drew (1904-1950), the African American surgeon and researcher who organised America’s first large-scale blood bank
Who is Charles Drew?
Charles Drew was an African-American surgeon and researcher, famous for organising America’s first large-scale blood bank. Drew developed, now widely used, techniques to preserve blood plasma. Born and educated in Canada on June 3, 1904, one of Drew’s major achievements was the ‘Blood for Britain’ scheme, which allowed blood to be transferred from New York to Britain during World War II to help wounded soldiers.
Watch Here for more information on Drew’s life and legacy.
A spotlight on Henrietta Lacks
A celebration of the life of Henrietta Lacks (1920-1951) and the impact she has had on cancer research
Watch Here for more information on Lack’s life and legacy.
A spotlight onHarold Moody
A celebration of the life of Harold Moody (1882-1947) the doctor and activist who fought for the welfare of black people.
A spotlight on Elizabeth Anionwu
A celebration of Professor Dame Elizbeth Anionwu’s achievements, a British nurse who, in 1979, set up the first UK sickle cell centre. It recently celebrated its 40th anniversary.
In our final blog post we speak to our Head of BD, Leticia Murray, about her career and thoughts on diversity within clinical trials, and explore how the lessons of the past must shape our future.