Episode #157
EP 154: Remembering Reco Gunnels: A Legacy of Purpose, Service & Community
Episode Title: Remembering Reco Gunnels: Turning Legacy Into Lifesaving Action Episode Description: In this powerful episode of THIS THING CALLED Life, host Andi Johnson welcomes Kelly Gunnels, Ashley Smith of Hoxworth Blood Center, and Officer Johnson with the Cincinnati Police Department Community Relations Unit for an inspiring conversation about community, remembrance, and the power of giving. The conversation shines a light on the 8th Annual Reco Gunnels Senior Memorial Blood Drive, taking place September 26, 2026—an event created to honor the life and legacy of Reco Gunnels, who was tragically killed in 2017. Before his passing, Reco often reminded those around him of the importance of “Go Big or Go Home”—a call to be intentional, purposeful, and meaningful in everything he did. Today, that message continues through a community coming together to save lives, build relationships, and turn tragedy into a lasting legacy of service. Join Andi and her guests as they discuss the heart behind the memorial blood drive, the importance of community collaboration, Reco’s impact as a tissue donor, and how one person's message can continue to inspire meaningful action years later. Episode Highlights Andi Johnson introduces the episode and explores the importance of community through the story of the Reco Gunnels Senior Memorial Blood Drive. Kelly Gunnels shares the personal story behind the memorial blood drive and her desire to honor her brother Reco, who was tragically killed in 2017. Kelly reflects on Reco’s personality, his commitment to community, and the meaning behind his familiar message: “Go Big or Go Home.” The guests discuss how the annual blood drive has grown into a community tradition that turns remembrance into meaningful action. Kelly shares how Reco became a tissue donor and how his donation has continued to make a difference, including through his cornea and ongoing research. Ashley Smith of Hoxworth explains how mobile blood drives bring donation opportunities directly into local communities and help make blood donation part of everyday community life. The conversation highlights why maintaining a strong blood supply before an emergency happens is so important. Officer Anthony Johnson discusses the Cincinnati Police Department’s Community Relations Unit and its efforts to build relationships with residents and support crime victims and their families. The guests discuss how community events can create opportunities to celebrate life, strengthen relationships, and provide education beyond moments of tragedy. The conversation highlights the importance of bringing organ and tissue donation education into communities, particularly communities of color. Kelly shares why she believes people should know their health numbers, including blood pressure, and take changes in their health seriously. The guests discuss the importance of talking with family members about organ and tissue donation decisions before a crisis occurs. Kelly also shares about her book, A Widow’s Guide, and how her experiences with grief, trauma, faith, and healing have shaped her desire to help others. The episode highlights the upcoming 8th Annual Reco Gunnels Senior Memorial Blood Drive, taking place September 26, 2026, at the Holloman Center, 3539 Reading Road, Cincinnati. Hoxworth currently lists the event as a memorial blood drive and notes that the donor bus will be located at the Holloman Center. Dr. Calhoun from UC College of Medicine will also be part of the event, helping provide education and demonstrations related to lifesaving practices. Kelly, Ashley, and Officer Johnson reflect on how Reco’s story continues to bring people together and create opportunities to serve others. The conversation closes with a powerful reminder that legacy is not only about how someone is remembered—it is also about what their life inspires others to do. Key Takeaways 1. Legacy can become a source of service. Reco’s life was tragically cut short, but his family has chosen to honor his memory by creating opportunities for others to give, serve, and make a difference. 2. Community participation can save lives. Blood donations are an essential part of caring for patients during medical emergencies, surgeries, cancer treatment, and other critical situations. Hoxworth notes that blood cannot be manufactured and depends on volunteer donors. 3. Conversations about donation matter. Making an informed decision about organ, tissue, and eye donation—and sharing that decision with loved ones—can help families understand and honor a person's wishes during an incredibly difficult time. Tweetable Quotes “Finally, got a letter from Katie saying how many people were blessed around the world, not just in the United States, around the world from Reco's donation and how his cornea is still being used for research today for blindness.” Kelly Gunnels “You know, with these mobile blood drives, we can come into the community and literally be a part of it, even if it is just for a few hours. But then, maybe people remember.” Ashley Smith “But if people hear Reco's story and that you know Kelly's a donor, and that he had checked that box to be a donor himself. That he'll just remember that it does take those volunteer blood donors to get that blood on the shelf and make sure it's there when that tragedy does happen.” Ashley Smith “We know how important this is for Reco because his story doesn't end on that day. It goes beyond that.” Officer Johnson “So get your numbers. Know what they are. Get checked. If you're having heart palpitations, you're having something going on. Go to the doctor, go get checked. Don't take it for granted that it's just anxiety.” Kelly Gunnels Event Information 8th Annual Reco Gunnels Senior Memorial Blood Drive Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026 Location: Holloman Center, 3539 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45229 Blood Drive: Hoxworth Blood Center donor bus Hoxworth's current event listing confirms the September 26 memorial blood drive at the Holloman Center. Appointments are encouraged for blood drives, although availability for walk-ins may vary. Additional episode notes: Reco's twin brother, Ramone Gunnels, also helps Kelly with the memorial event. Kelly's book is A Widow's Guide by KRV Gunnels. Resources: Donatelifeky.org https://getoffthelist.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/ https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/ https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/ https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO https://www.youtube.com/@NetworkforHope . https://aopo.org/ RegisterMe.org/NetworkforHope
