“Yours For Life”

state map

Larry J Frederick - American Hero

Life Across America Ride

Sonoma County resident Larry J Frederick is once again raising awareness for the importance of blood donation with his "Life Across America" bike ride. Follow him on his trek across the country. www.lifeacrossamerica.com/

His story is one of courage. While on duty as a police officer, August 21, 1982, Larry was permanently disabled by a traffic accident.  A DUI driver, speeding at 65 MPH, struck him as he was speaking to a stopped motorist.  He used 110 units of blood and needed nine major surgeries to repair extensive injuries. 

Larry refused to let personal tragedy keep him down after his near-fatal traffic accident. Following his surgeries, extensive rehabilitation, and physical therapy, he set out to help others by raising money and awareness with Miracle Rides in the early 90's. Larry made headlines in June 1996 with his first "Life Across America", a nationwide blood drive with Larry and his son riding 4,266 miles for the cause.  The ride culminated in Washington D.C. in the Oval Office of the White House, with 191 blood drives gathering 75,000 units. American Association of Blood Banks awarded him The President's Award.

Blood Bank of the Redwoods was honored to have Larry as a member of the Board of Directors from 1998 to 2003.  At the invitation of America's Blood Centers, from 1998 - 2008, Larry has been the presenter of the "Larry Frederick Award" given to a worthy recipient(s) at ABC's Annual Awards Dinner.

He continues to lecture as a compelling and inspiring speaker on the behalf of blood awareness for individual blood centers of America's Blood Centers.