6 Years After Being Struck By Hit & Run Driver, Man Makes Remarkable Recovery
By Tom Mustin
BROOMFIELD, Colo. (CBS4) - Tim Albo has come a long way.
The 32-year-old Thornton man works at the Canine Rehab and Conditioning Group in Broomfield, helping with everything from maintenance to swimming and conditioning.
Albo's job is the icing on the cake after a miraculous recovery from a life changing accident six years ago.
"I got ran over. I came back bigger and stronger," he told CBS4's Tom Mustin.
In October of 2010, Albo was walking near Coors Field when a car hit him and took off. He was in a coma for 13 days and not expected to live.
We spoke to Albo six years ago, and the change is remarkable.
Countless hours of rehab later, the new Tim Albo speaks confidently, has put on 60 pounds and still has his sense of humor.
"Oh man you're getting strong," said Mustin as Albo picked him up during a hug.
"I don't stop, dude," laughed Albo.
That drive has helped Tim land his dream job.
"I used to go to the puppy store where you could adopt a puppy when I was having a bad day and it would make my day better. Now I just have to go to work and make some money doing it. It's the best thing in the world," Albo said.
In June, Carrie Bowlus interviewed Albo for a job at the CRGC. She saw his potential, took a chance, and hired him.
"He connects with people and people just light up," said Bowlus.
Bowlus says Albo is a model employee. Working with pets has helped him come out of his shell.
"There's nothing more rewarding than watching somebody get their life back," she said.
Now healthy and happy, Albo is driving himself into a new future, confident and thankful for the countless people who've helped him on the road to recovery.
"Thank you. It means a lot. Look at me now," he said.
Brandon Mondragon, the man who struck Albo, was sentenced to six months of work release at the Denver County Jail. He served less than 100 days. Tim says he has forgiven Mondragon, and wishes him the best.
Tom Mustin is CBS4's Weekend Anchor. He has been with CBS4 since 2002, and is always looking for great story ideas. Connect with Tom on Facebook or follow him on Twitter @TomCBS4.
