By Joanna Putman
Police1
UNICOI, Tenn. — In July, Unicoi County Sheriff’s Deputy Jonathan Williams saved a man’s life by performing CPR for 44 minutes, WBIR reported.
The man’s sister, Lacy Hester, praised Williams’ dedication.
“He was actually dead when they got there, and he got him back,” she said. “Most people would have given up before 44 minutes.”
Now, Williams finds himself in need of help, according to the report. At the end of September, Hurricane Helene swept through the area, causing floods that destroyed his home, his belongings and his patrol cruiser.
“Everything had washed down the river,” Hester told WBIR, recalling their conversation.
Wanting to give back to the man who saved her brother’s life, Hester launched a GoFundMe fundraiser, according to the report.
The fundraiser, initially set with a goal of $2,000, has already surpassed that amount as the community rallies around Williams and his family, according to the report. Hester emphasized how humble and appreciative Williams has been.
“He tells me, ‘I can’t thank you enough. I could say it a million times, and it still wouldn’t be enough.’”
Despite his modesty, Hester said the effort isn’t about repaying a debt, but about supporting someone who gave her family a second chance.
