Community Corner

3rd Annual Memorial Blood Drive to Be on Officer Vasquez's Birthday This Year

From a Manhattan Beach Police Department press release. 

The Manhattan Beach Police Officers’ Association, in partnership with the American Red Cross and family of MBPD Officer Mark Vasquez, is presenting the 3rd annual memorial event for Officer Vasquez.

This year’s event will take place on May 22, 2014, from 1-7 p.m.  in the Joslyn Center in the city of Manhattan Beach

Mark Vasquez joined Manhattan Beach Police Department in 2005 and worked in patrol until he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a blood cancer, in 2007. Officer Vasquez was heroic in his positive outlook and will to win not only at work, but at home with his wife, Lee, and their two daughters, Madison and Ashley.

Officer Vasquez’s battle against his cancer was valiant and at times, when he was able to return to work, he said he felt like Superman. His fellow officers quickly nicknamed Officer Vasquez “Superman” and held many fundraisers 
and events in support of their hero.

However, on May 15, 2011, Manhattan Beach Police Department lost their Superman on National Peace Officers’ Memorial Day

Since that time, family, friends, and colleagues have gathered each May 15 to honor Mark and remember his larger-than-life personality and love of life. However, this year, the event will be held on Mark’s birthday, May 22nd, not only to celebrate his life, but hope that the blood drive will save the life of someone in need.

Lee Vasquez said, “The first blood drive our family hosted in 2007 yielded over 150 units of blood. It was a huge success! The support this community gave our family during that time, as Mark battled for his life, was amazing. This May will be three years since we lost Mark to cancer, and our family would like to give back. So, for all of those in need of blood transfusions, whether fighting cancer or other illness, this is for you!

"Together with the Manhattan Beach Police Officers’ Association, in memory of our Superman, we’re giving blood! Join us! Your generosity could give someone their life back!” 
 
According to the Red Cross, blood cannot be manufactured, as it can only come from generous donors. Red Cross Account Manager Alice Lan, stated, “You will help ensure blood is on the shelf when needed. Most people don’t think they will ever need blood, but many do. You will be someone’s hero! In fact, you could help save more than one life with just one donation. One pint of blood can save up to three lives!”
 
You are invited to join the ranks of MBPD and be a hero and save a life. To make your life saving appointment, go to: www.redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code “MARKVASQUEZ” or for more information, contact Lee Vasquez at: leevasquez@yahoo.com


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