New Castle County Executive declares Wednesday, Feb. 19 as “Roslyn Whitehurst Day”
DELAWARE – Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD) is proud to continue its celebration of Black History Month, and the recognition of the lifesaving role Black and African American blood donors play in our community’s healthcare system.
The Dr. Charles Drew Lifesaver Award, presented annually during Black History Month, honors BBD partners who champion the importance of diversity in the blood supply. Named for Dr. Charles Drew, known as the father of modern blood banking and the first African American to earn a Doctor of Medical Science degree from Columbia University, the award celebrates his lifesaving contributions during World War II, which led to the technology and practices used by the nation’s first blood banks and bloodmobiles.
During the ceremony, BBD Executive Director Steve Corse, Medical Director Dr. Bruce Sachais, and Senior Director of Laboratories Kristin Frederick leadership presented the award to Whitehurst for her partnership and commitment to the organization’s lifesaving mission. In addition, State Representative Sophie Phillips recognized Whitehurst’s outstanding commitment to lifesaving blood donations, and New Castle County Executive Marcus Henry declared Wednesday as Roslyn Whitehurst Day in New Castle County.
Whitehurst is a 15-gallon donor, who has been giving blood since 1998. A resident of New Castle County, she is a mother and a retired educator who spent 35 years teaching.
“Roslyn’s red blood cells lack certain antigens which makes her an excellent donor for many patients within the sickle cell population,” said Kristin Frederick, Senior Director of Laboratories at Blood Bank of Delmarva. “Her dedication to frequent donations over the years has helped 116 sickle cell patients in our community.”
“Finding blood donors who closely resemble the ethnicity of transfusion recipients can lead to better matches and subsequent outcomes,” said Dr. Bruce Sachais, Medical Director at Blood Bank of Delmarva. “The impact Ms. Roslyn Whitehurst has made individually with her 15 gallons of blood donated and raising awareness about the need for donors cannot be overstated.”
State Representative Sophie Phillips, who is an O negative donor at BBD, also congratulated Whitehurst, saying, “Roslyn, you have saved lives, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award. Diversity is imperative to the success of our state and our nation. Part of that means increasing the diversity of our donors. As a multiracial woman, I am grateful that we are celebrating diversity and awarding the amazing, Roslyn Whitehurst.”
In addition, New Castle County Executive Marcus Henry County Executive Henry sent a proclamation honoring Whitehurst. The document read, in part, “Whereas, in the State of Delaware, African Americans make up 22.5% of the population but only 5.5% of the local blood donors. Similarly, other minority groups such as Hispanics (2.9%), Asians (2.4%), and Native Americans (0.2%) are also underrepresented in blood donation. This disparity highlights the ongoing need to encourage more diverse participation in blood donation efforts…; and Whereas, In addition to supporting local blood supply needs, Ms. Whitehurst’s efforts align with the increasing demand for blood nationwide…Now, therefore, I, Marcus Henry, County Executive of New Castle County, by virtue of the authority vested in me, do hereby proclaim February 19, 2025, as Roslyn Whitehurst day in New Castle County.”
Whitehurst thanked BBD and government officials for this prestigious honor.
“I donate blood because I understand that both spiritually and naturally the life of the flesh is in the blood. It is amazing to me to consider that this small act of service would result in this recognition and honor,” Whitehurst said. “And it’s really surprising – a pleasant surprise – to learn from you all here that one in three African American donors is a match for sickle cell patients. If we told more Black people about this hidden superpower they have, perhaps that would unlock the key to all this potential. We can certainly try. Thank you for this award; it truly is an honor. Please donate. Thanks again.”
Diverse blood donations are critical for patients with conditions like sickle cell disease. These patients often require very closely matched blood products due to their body’s tendency to produce antibodies against transfused red blood cells. BBD and NYBCe hold the largest inventory of rare blood in the world, making it a critical resource for patients with unique transfusion needs. A robust and diverse blood supply is critical for ensuring equitable healthcare across the region. To make an appointment to donate, visit delmarvablood.org or call 888.8.BLOOD.8.
About Blood Bank of Delmarva
Founded in 1954, Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD) has served the Delmarva Peninsula for 70 years, delivering nearly 90,000 lifesaving blood products annually to 40+ hospitals, EMS and healthcare partners. BBD is part of New York Blood Center Enterprises (NYBCe), which spans 17+ states and delivers one million blood products to 400+ U.S. hospitals annually. NYBCe additionally delivers cellular therapies, specialty pharmacy, and medical services to 200+ research, academic and biomedical organizations. NYBCe’s Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute is a leader in hematology and transfusion medicine research, dedicated to the study, prevention, treatment and cure of bloodborne and blood-related diseases. BBD serves as a vital community lifeline dedicated to helping patients and advancing global public health. To learn more, visit delmarvablood.org. Connect with us on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
