Officer Carlos Yanez Jr. took a break from his physical therapy to mark a special occasion - the day he joined the force.
"Happy Anniversary. 25 August, 2014. Seven years. We did it," he said in the video message.
SEE MORE: Wounded Chicago police officer speaks from hospital as he struggles with losing partner Ella French
Officer Ella French's wounded partner speaks from hospital
While French was laid to rest last week, Yanez spoke from his hospital bed, thanking those who have supported him, made donations and prayed for him.
"Thank you for your support, your donations, your prayers. I love you all," he said.
His voice was weak then, but his sister said he's getting more talkative each day.
Yanez is partially paralyzed and lost an eye in the shooting. He was released from the hospital earlier this week and is now undergoing therapy at a rehab facility.
The Yanez family has set up a GoFundMe to help with his recovery.