Reed Robinson of Cherokee County, Kansas, made his first blood donation at the age of 17 after being inspired as a young boy by his father's commitment to giving back. Reed is now 72 — and that first donation was 55 years ago. Reed recently made his 480th blood donation — and brought his lifelong total to more than 60 gallons. The milestone held deep personal meaning for Reed because it took place on what would have been his late father's 100th birthday.

"This would have been my father's 100th birthday. So today's really special to me for both reasons," Reed said. "I have reached this plateau and I feel like dad's probably watching me. I'm pretty proud because he was really excited when I donated the first time ever after I went away to college."

Reed's donations are extra special because he has CMV-negative blood — a rare status that makes his donations crucial for life-saving surgeries on infants and newborns. And he's not done yet. Reed is committed to donating as long as his health allows.

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Southwest Michigan's Morning News podcast is prepared and delivered by the WSJM Newsroom. For these stories and more, visit https://www.wsjm.com and follow us for updates on Facebook. 

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WSJM Afternoon News for 08-06-26

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FULL SHOW: Thursday, August 6th 2026

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Have a knack for trivia? Well, so does Brooke… Try to answer as many questions right as you can in 30 seconds. If you answer more correctly than Brooke, you win 100 bucks! Good luck!

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Today’s Phone Tap victim was set up by her friends, and although she’s been single for a long time, we have a romantic opportunity for her that she CAN’T PASS UP!

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Today's Masked Speaker has been wondering for the last 4 years "Am I just a terrible human being?" It all started when he went to the airport and made a crazy decision! 

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It's a Hip Hop Hot Seat edition of Plenty of Twenty!

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Southwest Michigan's Morning News podcast is prepared and delivered by the WSJM Newsroom. For these stories and more, visit https://www.wsjm.com and follow us for updates on Facebook. 

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WSJM Afternoon News for 08-05-26

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