David Ortizis opening up about his recovery, months after beingshot in the Dominican Republic.
In his first interview since the incident, Ortiz, 43, emotionally recalled details of the night he was shot and explained the difficulties he’s faced during his recovery.
The former MLB star was shot in the back at a nightclub in his hometown in the Dominican Republic on June 9.
“When the bullet hit me, the first thing I felt was like a sting,” Ortiz explained. “The first five seconds I thought I was having a nightmare. [Then] a man named Eliezer, who I am very thankful for, he helped me and took me to the hospital.”
The former Boston Red Sox star added, “I was feeling something that I had never felt before and that was just the feeling of trying to survive.”
David Ortiz.Frank Micelotta/Shutterstock
On Monday, Ortiz made his first public appearance since being shot when hestepped out at Fenway Parkto throw the first pitch of the Red Sox’s game against the New York Yankees.
“I want to thank God for giving me a second opportunity in my life to be here with all of you,” Ortiz told the crowd after emerging from the dugout to a standing ovation,according to ESPN. “I want to thank the Red Sox, my real family. They always have been there for me, supporting me … They were the first ones there supporting me.”
Billie Weiss/Getty Images
“I want to thank you for all for your prayers, all of them came home,” he added before throwing the ball to his former teammate Jason Varitek.
David Ortiz.Billie Weiss/Getty Images
RELATED VIDEO:Former Red Sox Star David Ortiz in Stable Condition After Dominican Republic Shooting, Father Says
Ortiz’s homecoming came just a few weeks after he wasreleased from Massachusetts General Hospital, where he was being treated.
The bullet, which went straight through his stomach, caused damage to his intestines and liver. Ortizunderwent three surgeriesas a result, and is now continuing his rehabilitation from home.
“They are some of the best teammates I have ever had,” he said of his medical care team, also thanking fans for “the prayers and good wishes from the Dominican Republic and Red Sox Nation.”
source: people.com
