“Regardless of who you are, your blood is red—and it’s always needed.” – RAY LEBRON
San Diego Blood Bank is thrilled to share that long-time blood donor, blood drive chairperson, and volunteer Ray Lebron has been inducted into the 2024 National Blood Donation Hall of Fame, sponsored by Fresenius Kabi. The Donation Hall of Fame recognizes individuals nationwide who have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to blood donation.
Every year, blood centers across the country submit nominations for this recognition. Winners are chosen by Fresenius Kabi based on the nominee’s demonstrated commitment and passion to donating blood and supporting blood donation. Ray is the fourth San Diego Blood Bank donor to be inducted into the prestigious Fresenius Kabi National Blood Donation Hall of Fame!
Ray Lebron’s story is one of dedication, compassion, and advocacy
Ray began his blood donation journey as a college student in the Philippines, carried it on through his time as a Marine, and eventually became a dedicated donor with San Diego Blood Bank. His commitment deepened in 1984 when a co-worker’s infant nephew was injured in a mass shooting. Knowing his blood donation directly helped save lives inspired him to continue giving—and to encourage others to do the same.
With over 190 donations to date, Ray recently celebrated his 33-gallon milestone. Beyond his personal contributions, Ray is a dedicated advocate, especially encouraging people of color, including those of Asian descent, to step forward and donate blood.
He has chaired countless blood drives, from his workplace to his church, which now hosts four drives annually. These blood drives have collected more than 845 pints of blood—impacting the lives of more than 2,500 people. Ray has been a dedicated volunteer with San Diego Blood Bank for more than 18 years where he often supports events like the annual Comic-Con Blood Drive, and with other organizations like giving back as a docent at the San Diego Marine Corps Museum.
On November 19, 2024, San Diego Blood Bank friends, staff, Fresenius Kabi, and fellow Hall of Fame members celebrated and honored Ray with an induction ceremony. Ray was presented with a personalized award and kind words were shared recognizing his achievements, commitment and generous contributions to people in need of blood transfusions and San Diego Blood Bank.
Ray Lebron (2024) joins three incredible San Diego Blood Bank Fresenius Kabi National Donation Hall of Fame members: Joe MacDonald (2020), Candy Yolles (2021), Jim Walker (2023)
Congratulations! Thank you, Ray, for inspiring us with your lifelong commitment to saving lives and supporting the health of our community.
UPDATE: January 15, 2025
Councilmember for District 7, Raul Campillo, declared November 19, 2024, “Ray Lebron Day.”
Councilmember Campillo, shared, “Ray is a Tierrasanta resident who was one of 12 inductees into the 2024 National Blood Bank Hall of Fame for donating blood over 190 times, chairing numerous blood drives resulting in more than 845 pints of blood collected, and being a committed volunteer for decades. Ray has dedicated his life to doing good for others and demonstrates that service comes in many forms. Thank you, Ray, for being an inspiration to all San Diegans.”
Fresenius Kabi is a global health care company that specializes in medicines and technologies for infusion, transfusion, and clinical nutrition. The company’s products and services are used to help care for critically and chronically ill patients. Fresenius-Kabi.com
