COLORADO SPRINGS — Michael Elmore, the man police said was critically injured after being struck by an alleged drunk driver while unloading equipment from his work van, lost one of his legs above the knee after the crash. News 5 followed up with Elmore, now at Advanced Health Care of Colorado Springs, who recently found out he has colon cancer.
Elmore is going through both physical and occupational therapy, and said he feels blessed to be alive. He said while at UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central, doctors discovered his cancer, which he said they tentatively put at stage three colon cancer. Elmore said doctors found the cancer around two weeks ago. "I'm feeling hopeful, I'm not completely freaked out by this. You know, obviously, there's a little bit of fear about it, but for me this is partly, well I should say, largely about quality of life, and not just extension of life," said Elmore. He said he plans to treat his cancer in a natural and holistic way.
As a result of a GoFundMe being set up in his name after the incident and a benefit concert, the community has raised a little over $30,000 according to Elmore. The money goes towards various kinds of Elmore's bills. "Incredibly blessed with the outpouring of support that people have given me, not only physically, mentally, emotionally, but financially. And it has touched my heart in a very deep way, I don't even know really how to express my thanks," said Elmore.
While most people could be concerned with their own situation in a time like this, Elmore said he hopes to give back to the community that has given to him. "I really want to be someone that can pay things forward in a way that reflects what I've been given," said Elmore.
Elmore said he could spend around three more weeks doing physical and occupational therapy. Due to his bills which continue to grow, Elmore said some friends of his set up a series of concerts to help him financially. Tickets do not have to be purchased to attend the concerts, but donations will be accepted once there.
The Michael Elmore Concert Series begins on Friday, August 23 with Martini Shot playing. Dotsero will play on September 13, and Inman Brothers will play on September 20. All of the shows will be from 6-8 p.m. in the North Plaza of University Village Colorado.
Previous Reporting:
Local man hit by suspected DUI driver speaks
Friends, family go above and beyond after life-changing crash for local man
Woman arrested for DUI, critically injuring pedestrian
