It seems that every time someone calls in on one of those talk radio shows that talks about computers with " My hard drive crashed with all my pictures" stories, the host always says - maybe someone can get them off but no guarantee.
From what I read above, you all make it sound like a piece of cake.
I'm in agreement with Akidale. Unless you have something on there that will land you in jail, just format the drive and use one of the recommended free utilities.
And donate it to a church or some other reputable organization, not a thrift store or other group that will sell it.