By BECKY CRISSMAN

becky.crissman@cordeledispatch.com

CORDELE — A good crowd gathered Thursday to donate the gift of life while honoring the lives of area first responders and remembering those lost lives during the terrorist attacks on 9-11.

The Melody Godfrey Agency (Country Financial) teamed up with Oneblood to sponsor the 9-11 Memorial Blood Drive from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.

“Our staff was blown away by the wonderful support of our first responders and our citizens,” said Godfrey. “Cordele/Crisp County showed up and showed out.”

Godfrey said they collected 35 units of blood which could save over 99 lives. The agency sponsored the event last year but needed an additional bus this year to accommodate the number of donors. Godfrey said Pruitt Hospice also joined forces and provided giveaways and lunch.

“We look forward to hosting the 3rd annual event next year,” said Godfrey. “I want to thank the chamber for their help in promoting as well as the Cordele Dispatch and WSST TV,” she said. “I also want to thank the staff of Oneblood who are always both fun and professional and make the process more fun for donors, keeping everyone laughing. You can tell they have a true heart for their jobs and they help put the donors at ease and make them feel more comfortable.”