BUFFALO, N.Y. — Standing tall at the podium is a vulnerable man, grateful for a second chance at life, Cheektowaga Police officer Troy Blackchief.
Blackchief was hit by a stolen vehicle while deploying stop sticks earlier this year. He spent months recovering in Illinois and Texas.
"I want to thank all my brothers and sisters from CPD for carrying on the care for me and for my family. My wife had a general command staff. I don't pretty much remember the first 40 days of what happened, and she tells me about all the people that were helping her," Blackchief said.
He continued, "Thank you guys so much. It means the most to me. Thank you."
On Saturday, he accepted an injured first responders grant worth $10,000 for rehab.
"Obviously, it's a happy moment, and were appreciative of the organization Running 4 Heroes," retired Cheektowaga Police Chief Brian Gould said.
The Running 4 Heroes organization is based in Florida and is dedicated to raising awareness and money for fallen first responders. Blackchief is the 52nd recipient, and he was nominated by his brothers and sisters in blue back in November.
"Troy has had an unspeakable journey, one that no one in their right mind would embark on willingly, one that you wouldn't wish on your worst enemy," says Tim Nazzaro, Running 4 Heroes President.
While Blackchief continues to recover, Chief Brian Coons says he's hoping to have Troy back at work after the beginning of the year.