Fred Sullivan’s blood donation journey began in 1952. A senior in high school, he heard there was a need for blood at his local Elks lodge. Students were excused from class to donate, and Fred eagerly joined his classmates. What happened next became an unforgettable first‑time experience. “A group of us went down, and lo and behold, the guy behind the bar at the Elks Club said, ‘If you’re old enough to give blood, you’re old enough to drink!’” Fred said. “So they gave us all a shot of bourbon.” That moment sparked a commitment to donating blood that has lasted more than seven decades. From his college years and military service to a 56‑year career in education, Fred kept showing up to give, donating every eight weeks whenever possible, no matter where life took him. Over the years, he’s received recognition for the many gallons he’s donated, but the true reward to him is simple: “After I give blood, I feel like I’ve had an oil change,” Fred said. “I feel better afterwards.” Now 9...