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Officer Adsit Stands, Recovery Continues After Being Struck During Protests

DENVER (CBS4)- Denver Police Officer John Adsit is seen standing in a picture and on a video in the hospital where he is recovering after he was struck by a vehicle while escorting a student protest two months ago.

Adsit was run over by a black Mercedes on Dec. 3, 2014 while escorting hundreds of East High School students who walked out of class to protest police action in Ferguson, Mo.

adsit family
Officer John Adsit with his daughter and wife (credit: Adsit family)

Adsit is part of the Denver Police Bike Patrol. He and three other patrol officers were hurt in the protest but Adsit was critically injured.

Black Mercedes Christopher Booker John Adsit
The black Mercedes driven by Christopher Booker that struck four Denver Police officers (credit: CBS)

The same day the family released the video showing Adsit standing, along with a message from his wife, Michelle Adsit, talking about the support the family has received from the church, Adsit's daughter, Jordan, also had some big news.

The high school senior signed a letter of intent to play college soccer at Trinity International University in Dearfield, Ill. near Chicago.

Jordan Adsit
Jordan Adsit (credit: CBS)

"It was always a real dream of mine to play college soccer," said Jordan.

The dream helps balance the difficult period since her father was run down.

"I've always been daddy's girl and he's always been my number one supporter," said Jordan. "I know he wishes he could be here but I know he's proud and I'm glad I could do it and I'm glad he could be here in spirit."

John Adsit
Officer John Adsit (credit: CBS)

Part of the video message includes an encouraging update on Adsit's condition.

"Currently John is up and walking everyday, getting stronger. We're hoping he gets to move to a rehab facility in a couple of weeks and then come home soon," said Adsit's wife, Michelle, in the video.

Jordan is excited about her father's recovery, "It's my turn to return the favor and be his number one fan, friend, coach and can't wait for him to come home."

officer adsit
DPD Officer John Adsit seen recovering in the hospital after he was run over during a student protest in December 2014. (credit: YouTube)

Jordan said her father has motivated her to try even harder this year in everything she does.

Adsit's condition was initially considered grave and he has undergone 11 surgeries. He suffered a severed artery, broken bones and had his spleen removed.

LINK: http://www.foundry.church/#rise-run-5k

The Rise and Run 5K fundraising run to support Adsit's recovery is May 2. The run begins at Foundry Church. Registration will open Thursday, Feb. 5.

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