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.