Bret Martin receives the Chairman’s Choice Award, from Judge Robert S. Boyd, Blood Bank of the Redwoods Board Chair

Singer-songwriter and cancer survivor Bret Martin received Blood Bank of the Redwoods’ first-ever Chairman’s Choice Award. The award is given to an individual who has demonstrated exemplary, extraordinary, tireless, and/or some particular unmatched achievement on behalf of the organization.

Bret Martin has become the blood center’s greatest advocate and a living, walking advertisement for blood donation. Becasue of his cancer, Bret could not give blood, but he is influencing others to do so. Over the past year he has become the voice of Blood Bank of the Redwoods. His inspirational words are heard over the airwaves on local radio stations and in the songs he writes. One song in particular captured the hearts of the blood center employees. Inspired by blood donors, Bret wrote a poignant song of a child needing blood. Casey’s Song touches on the unsung heroes in the community whose selfless acts of donating blood not only saves lives, but also gives families a second chance. An audio recording of Casey’s Song can be found on our website at www.bbr.org/library.htm

Bret’s passion for life is contagious. He believes that everyone can help by contributing in some way. When Bret isn’t spreading the word about the importance of blood, he is talking about beating cancer and encouraging others to get regular check ups.