INDIANAPOLIS — Nearly six months after he was shot in the line of duty, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Officer Thomas Mangan is sharing an update on his recovery.
In a new video released by IMPD Sunday, Mangan, with his wife Emory Mangan by his side, shared moments from his journey.
"Health wise, I'm doing so much better than doctors even thought," Tommy said.
Mangan was shot on February 27 when he responded to a report of a crash in Fountain Square. Police said the shooting left him with "significant damage" to his laryngeal cartilage, known as the Adam's apple, and voice box.
He was released from the hospital on March 11. He says remembering that moment "really uplifts his heart."
"It hasn't been easy, the load has seemed very heavy at times but being able to have faith and have that load be lightened is, I believe, the only way that it is possible to make it through. Not only make it through, but grow stronger through it," Tommy said.
Tommy says Emory has been by his side every day and there for him.
"We've known a deeper love and known God's love more through all of the letters and phone calls and people stopping by," Tommy said.
During his recovery, the Mangans have received hundreds of cards from people across America.
"Just to read just the kind words of people we don't even know and how they're praying for us and thinking of us, that support and encouragement — it was so uplifting to end every day with that," Emory said. "We were still just reeling from what had happened and grappling with the changes, not knowing what the future would hold in terms of Tommy's health."
Tommy shared a message for his fellow IMPD colleagues, who have helped support him during and after his hospital stay.
"You're not alone. You also have a community that is backing you up. Also allow each other to bear your burdens and open up to them because I've learned by doing that that it all is worth it," Tommy shared.
Another surgery for Tommy is planned for September to revise the scar on his neck. He also continues physical therapy and speech exercises.
RELATED | 'We're not going anywhere': IMPD stands by officer shot in line of duty | IMPD releases body cam video, surveillance from Feb. shooting where officer was shot in the neck | Fund accepting donations to help injured IMPD Officer Thomas Mangan
You can watch the full video with Tommy and Emory below.
-
18-year-old shot on Indy's northeast side dies days later in hospital
A man who was critically injured in a shooting on the northeast side of Indianapolis last week has died, police said.
Two 13-year-olds arrested after pursuit and gunfire incident in Indianapolis
IMPD arrested two 13-year-olds early Sunday morning following a pursuit and shots-fired incident in downtown Indianapolis. Police said they were in a stolen vehicle with a loaded firearm and marijuana
Safe Zone enforcement begins next month on I-465/I-69 construction zone
Drivers should be prepared for new penalties as Safe Zones, a worksite speed control pilot program, will officially enforce speeding regulations starting next month.
Pacers rally past Bucks 117-98 with Siakam, Haliburton for 1-0 playoff lead
Siakam finished with 25 points while Haliburton added 10 points to lead the Indiana Pacers past the Milwaukee Bucks 117-98 for a 1-0 lead in the Eastern Conference best-of-seven first-round series.
