Call it the lifeblood of the community — literally.
Cody Hawkins’ blood drained from his body after he was shot May 19, 2019 in Greenwood.
So, blood takes on a very personal meaning for his family.
“At that time, Cody lost a lot of blood,” said his godmother, Shanna Childs. “If we would have gotten to him in time, and he were to have gotten the blood that he needed, we might have saved him. So, we want to save somebody else’s life by giving back the blood.”
Childs and Cody’s mother, Ethel Hawkins Smith, organized a blood donation and block party on Saturday at the fountain in Uptown Greenwood. In addition to The Blood Connection’s on-site role, there was music and food.
Cody, 24, was slain by a single bullet fired in a drive-by shooting on Pearl Street.
“It’s the anniversary of Cody’s death,” Childs said. “He was murdered two years ago. So, this is just a remembrance to keep his name alive. We like to give back to the community. Blood is very crucial at this time, especially to African Americans. It’s to keep the community involved and engaged.”
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