Drew's innovative methods of blood preservation and transportation revolutionized the way blood was collected and used in medical procedures. He discovered that blood could be separated into its different components (plasma, red blood cells, and platelets) and stored for later use, thus allowing blood to be transported over long distances without spoiling. This was a breakthrough in the field of blood transfusion and paved the way for the development of modern blood banks.

Unfortunately, Drew's achievements were not always recognized or respected. Despite his many contributions to medicine, he was denied admission to several hospitals due to racial discrimination, and he was even forced to resign from his position at the American Red Cross due to segregation policies.

Despite these setbacks, Drew continued to work tirelessly to improve the field of medicine and to ensure that his innovations were widely adopted. He went on to serve as the first African American examiner for the American Board of Surgery and was later appointed as the first African American professor of surgery at the Howard University College of Medicine.

Today, he is remembered as one of the most important figures in the history of medicine and is recognized as a pioneer in the field of blood transfusion and storage. His groundbreaking work in the field of medicine and his unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others continue to inspire individuals to this day.