ATLANTA --
Atlanta police Officer Dean Jackson is now out of a coma, according to his family.
Jackson’s wife, Ingrid Jackson, told Channel 2’s Ryan Young that they’ve been in love since high school and the past few weeks have tugged at the family’s heart.
“The first couple of days were very hard. We were heartbroken,” Ingrid Jackson said.
Dean Jackson was hurt while responding to a call about a fight on Joseph E. Boone Boulevard just before midnight on April 9. Jackson fell into a 6-foot hole. It took several minutes for fellow officers to find him. He’s been into a coma since that day.
His family drove from New York to be at his side.
The officer is the father of two teenagers.
His daughter told Young that her dad makes her feel special every chance he gets.
“He’s my dad. I’m a daddy’s girl. Anything he does make me happy,” she said.
The family received good news Wednesday afternoon when they found out Dean Jackson is now feeling much better.
He is off a ventilator and was able to say his name. He's also trying to get out the bed.
Atlanta officers are joining together to hold a benefit in the Jackson’s honor on Monday.
Benefit for Dean Jackson
Monday, April 25
Boners BBQ
634 Fraser St. SE
11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
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