Key Points 

• The team at the MPLX Sherwood natural gas processing plant in West Virginia recently hosted a blood drive that collected 65 pints of blood in honor of a current employee.
• The idea for the blood drive came from Tyler Adams, a Facility Engineer at Sherwood, who was inspired by personal experience and a desire to give back.
• The event was supported by the American Red Cross and highlighted the community's commitment to supporting local needs. 

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In a powerful show of community spirit and care, the team at the MPLX Sherwood natural gas processing plant in West Virginia recently hosted a blood drive that collected an impressive 65 pints of blood.  

“For the small rural community where Sherwood is located, this was a remarkable achievement and a testament to the dedication of the team and the generosity of local donors,” said Tina Rush, Community Relations Representative for MPLX, the midstream master limited partnership formed by Marathon Petroleum (MPC).  

The idea for the blood drive came from Tyler Adams, Facility Engineer at the Sherwood plant, who was inspired by both personal experience and a desire to give back.  

“When I worked in Louisiana, we had a mobile unit come right to our parking lot, and I donated regularly,” said Adams. “I’ve also had several family members whose lives were saved by blood donations. When Derek had his accident and needed blood, organizing a drive felt like the most meaningful ‘get well soon’ gift I could give.” 

“Organizing a drive felt like the most meaningful ‘get well soon’ gift I could give.” 

Derek Sheppard, a longtime colleague of Adams’, was seriously injured in a car accident on July 22, 2024. While driving to work, he lost consciousness and collided head-on with another vehicle. He later learned that a rare heart condition had caused his heart to briefly stop, leading to the crash. Sheppard was rushed to the hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery and received six pints of blood to treat severe internal injuries.

“Without those blood donations, I wouldn’t be here today,” Sheppard said. “I don’t necessarily want the attention, but if this drive inspires others to donate, then I’m all for it.”

The event was supported by the American Red Cross, whose expertise helped provide a smooth and safe process for all donors. According to the American Red Cross, blood donors help patients of all ages: accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and those battling cancer. In fact, every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood and there is no substitute.  

“We operate the largest natural gas facility in the U.S. right here in Doddridge County,” said Adams. “Supporting our community is not just important, it’s essential. This drive highlights our commitment and raises awareness about the ongoing need for blood.” 
Adams was one of the first to sign up for the blood drive.  

“I believe in leading by example,” he said. “This is something I care deeply about.”

With the success of this year’s event, the team is already looking ahead. Plans are underway to grow the blood drive and make it an annual tradition the community can count on.