Survivor of drunk driving crash thanks Phoenix first responders

PHOENIX (FOX 10) - 40 years after surviving a crash caused by a DUI, the survivor wants to thank first responders.

Donald Woodard nearly lost his life, something he will never forget.

On February 17, 1979, Woodard was riding his motorcycle heading to GCU when a pickup truck made a left turn and crashed into him near 18th St and Grand Ave.

On this 40th anniversary of the accident, Woodard brought pizzas to Phoenix firefighters and wanted to let them know how thankful he is for what they do day in and day out.

He got to tour the station and break some brad with the men and women who risk their lives to keep people safe.

"I was hurt really bad and the first responders do this all the time and it gives me a chance to find a way to say thank you," said Woodard. "I realize that the guys that took care of me 40 years ago aren't there anymore but the guys that are here now are the guys doing this every day. They may do four or five calls like mine every day and this gives me a chance to say thank you and tell them hey we love you and we appreciate what you guys do."

"To actually see that years down the raod that people still appreciate what has been done for them is a pretty amazing thing," said Captain Zeb Kern with Phoenix Fire.

Woodard also made sure to visit Phoenix Police at the Mountain View Precinct. He is also heading to Good Samaritan Hospital to feed staff in the emergency room.