HOUSTON –
Nearly five months have passed since Houston Police Officer Ronny Cortez was shot and wounded in the line of duty. He continues to make strides in his recovery.
The 100 Club is lending Cortez and his family a helping hand. Surrounded by his wife, two children and brothers in blue, Cortez graciously accepted the keys to a brand new Dodge Promaster on Friday afternoon. The van is equipped with a full mobility system that fits all of his needs.
"We really appreciate it. It's really going to help my family out a lot," Cortez said.
The 100 Club, an organization that helps police and firefighters in need, donated the van in an effort to make life easier for the veteran officer and his family. Cortez's wife Sheri said her heart is overflowing with gratitude.
"It is important for us because he has a road ahead. Many doctor appointments and many tests that still have to be done," Sheri Cortez said.
Ronny Cortez has been sticking to a rigorous schedule, undergoing rehab several hours a day.
A bullet partially severed his spine and is still lodged there so he's not able to walk, at least for the time being. He's a fighter so "can't" is a word you will never hear him use.
"We've got a lot of fighting to do ahead of us. We just want to continue on with it," Cortez said.
Rick Hartley, the executive director of the 100 Club, said it was an honor and a privilege to be a part of the effort to help the Cortez family.
Cortez, a 24-year veteran of the Houston Police Department, was shot several times in the stomach and back on Feb. 28 while assisting officers in searching for burglary suspects.
