CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — Citrus County Deputy Andy Lahera was honored by the county commission after being severely injured on the job. One year ago, Lahera was hit by a driver while working traffic control at Lecanto High School's graduation.
He suffered multiple broken bones, fractures, abrasions and internal injuries as a result of the crash. His wife, Michelle Lahera, said he is just now regaining some motion in the right half of his body.
On Tuesday, it was an emotional day for the Lahera family, as the county read off a proclamation honoring him.
"Deputy Lahera has shown remarkable strength, courage, and resiliency following a tragic accident a year ago," said a county employee.
As Deputy Lahera was honored, it's a reminder to his wife and children how difficult the last year has been.
"The community is showing how much they are standing behind Andy right now, and that means everything to our family because he is still fighting," Michelle shared.
Commissioners embraced the family, some with tears in their eyes as they've watched this family struggle.
“One year ago, our community was shaken by the tragic incident that left Deputy Lahera fighting for his life. Today, we come together to honor his bravery and resilience throughout his rehabilitation and healing journey," said Commissioner Ruthie Davis Schlabach in a statement. "I have known the Laheras for many years and it is no surprise to me the incredible strength and determination that Andy has shown in his recovery. Now, more than ever, as we commemorate one year since the accident, he needs our support. Michelle, Nick, and Vincent, the BOCC stands with you, this community stands with you, my family stands with you, and I stand with you.”
Now, Michelle is fighting for her husband and his health insurance coverage.
After the proclamation was read, the board of county commission meeting then transitioned into the public comment section. She took the podium with a very different tone.
"We are not seeking for the sheriff's office to pay for Deputy Lahera's medical insurance or life insurance, simply to remain on their group rate policy. Our plea is simple: we are seeking policy change," she said.
Michelle said a lot of it covered through worker's compensation, including the healthcare needs related to Deputy Lahera's car crash. She is asking to be assured he will have healthcare coverage for all other needs unrelated to the crash, such as if he were to be diagnosed with cancer.
Her comments come after receiving a letter from the sheriff saying the sheriff's office will reassess Deputy Lahera's employment in August.
Citrus County Sheriff Mike Prendergast says Lahera's employment status and health insurance coverage are entirely separate. Prendergast says if his employment with the sheriff's office ended, he'd still have health insurance coverage.
"None of that is gonna change," Prendergast said. "It is 100% covered. It's an in-the-line-of-duty accident that occurred so I don't know where this mythology emerged from."
Michelle Lahera said the worker's comp agent she works with has told her otherwise.
"I'm right here. I'm always willing to talk," Michelle said, after saying it had been months since she had spoken directly with the sheriff.
"She's just not returned my phone calls," Prendergast said, when asked why the two have not spoken.
Both Prendergast and Michelle say they are open to a conversation, but both want the other to reach out first.
"And there's no reason we need to be speaking through the media," said Nicholas Lahera, Michelle's son. "We don't want to be doing these interviews. We just want the best care for my dad, my husband."
"And instead of this, I just want the attention to be on my husband," Michelle said.
Prendergast agrees and wants the family to know, Deputy Lahera's health insurance coverage will not change.
"Andy's health care coverage remains 100% intact for the rest of his life because he was injured in a catastrophic way in the line of duty as a Citrus County sheriff's deputy," Prendergast said.
Michelle hopes to be able to speak openly with the Sheriff to get on the same page, as she worries what the sheriff says and what coverage her husband will actually receive may not be in line.
Malique Rankin is a general assignment reporter with 10 Tampa Bay. You can email her story ideas at mrankin@10tampabay.com and follow her Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages.