A big moment for everyone at the One Blood bus parked outside the Orange County Sheriff's Office Tuesday.

Inside, eager donors gave the 'gift of life' in the name of injured Brevard County Deputy Casey Smith -- including Smith's wife, Michelle -- who surprised everyone involved when she arrived to donate.

"I just wanted to thank everyone so much for giving your blood and your time. I know the lines were long," Michelle Smith said as she donated.

A steady stream of donors, including fellow deputies and even Sheriff Jerry Demings, gave blood.

"And while many of the blood products may possibly go to benefit Casey, they will benefit other people in this community as well," said Demings.

Smith was shot during a prostitution arrest at a Port St John home last Thursday night.

He's endured several surgeries, but Sheriff Wayne Ivey said Smith is recognizing voices and is aware of what happened, and what is happening to him, as he makes a slow recovery in an Orlando Regional Medical Center bed.

"It's absolutely impactful to Casey and his family, and us, to see amazing support from people that are turning out to help," said Ivey, who attended the drive.

"What a way to give back to my family, and my husband, but to the community as well," said Michelle Smith.

A series of weekend blood drives in Smith's name brought more than 400 pints of blood, Ivey said. The sheriff also said his office has received calls, emails and prayers in support of Smith, whose wife expressed her thanks to him.

Ivey also said anyone interested in making a monetary donation in the name of Agent Casey Smith to help first responders in need can do so at brevardsheriff.com.