MIAMI (WSVN) - A Florida Highway Patrol trooper who was struck on a highway more than two months ago was finally released from the hospital, Friday, as his road to recovery continues at home.
Forty-year-old FHP trooper Carlos Rosario was released from Ryder Trauma Center after undergoing multiple surgeries. Doctors said they believe he will make a full recovery and be able to walk again.
“It’s a day my family and I will never forget,” Rosario said. “I am alive today through the grace of God and the heroic actions of my coworkers, fire rescue and Jackson Ryder Trauma Center.”
A dozen FHP troopers surrounded him, along with the medical staff who have been treating him for the last two months, in a show of support.
FHP Trooper Joe Sanchez also added words of support for Rosario. “We all know that it’s a long road for his rehabilitation, but Trooper Rosario is a true trooper,” said Sanchez. “See that shirt he’s got on? He’s a super trooper. We all know the dangers of our profession.”
Rosario was standing on the side of the Dolphin Expressway, March 17, when a driver lost control, hit his cruiser, which then hit him. Police said they believe the driver was texting and driving.
Police later identified that driver as 26-year-old Hugo Olivares. He has been charged with reckless driving.
Olivares bonded out in March.
“I’m so thankful for the doctors, everyone that worked on my husband,” said Ana Rosario, the recovering trooper’s wife. “Because of them, he is here, but first I give the glory to God.”
Rosario now has to wear glasses that cover his right eye in order to correct the double vision he suffered from the impact.
“He was close to death numerous times,” said trauma surgeon Dr. Carl Schuman. “Unbelievably extensive orthopedic injuries and soft tissue injuries in both of his legs. Crushed, broken and unbelievably difficult to manage.”
Once Rosario was stabilized, he began six weeks of physical therapy. “This played a big role in helping him tolerate standing,” said physical therapist Laura Toomey. “Once we brought it all the way to 90 [degrees], then we progressed to the mat. He’s way over that hump, and he’s ready to fly.”
Rosario’s positivity and his support system will help him get through this time of recovery. “God willing, soon I can return to what I Iove and enjoy doing,” Rosario said, “which is being a Florida Highway Patrol state trooper.”
Doctors said it may take Rosario about a year before he fully recovers.
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