Blood Donors Wanted!

Once again, The Manhattan Beach Police Officers’ Association will be partnering with the American Red Cross for the 8th Annual Mark Vasquez Memorial Blood Drive. This year’s event will take place on Wednesday, May 22, 2019, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM at the Joslyn Center (1601 Valley Drive). Those interested in signing up to donate blood should visit www.redcrossblood.org and use the sponsor code MarkVasquez.

Mark Vasquez joined Manhattan Beach Police Department in 2005 and worked in patrol until he was diagnosed with a type of blood cancer, Multiple Myeloma, in 2007. Officer Vasquez was heroic in his positive outlook not only at work, but at home with his wife, Lee, and their two daughters, Madison and Ashley. Officer Vasquez’ 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, Manhattan Beach Police Department lost their Superman on May 15, 2011 which is also National Peace Officers’ Memorial Day.

Since that time, Mark’s family, friends, and colleagues have gathered each May to honor and remember his larger-than-life personality, as well as, his love of life. This year, the event will be held on what would have been Mark’s 43rd birthday. Lee Vasquez said, "Year after year I am grateful for the unwavering support this community continues to have for our family. Our efforts to keep Mark’s memory alive could not be possible without all of you. This blood drive is not only a celebration of his life, but a chance to give back! I know he would be proud of us. Come out and join us! Your donation could save a life!”