OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. – Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson addressed the public in a press conference Tuesday after announcing his return to work following a serious car accident and months of recovery.
Patterson looked thin but well as he thanked his supporters and family during the press conference.
He was tearful several times as he spoke of the encouragement and letters he received while recovering in the hospital form his injures which included multiple broken bones.
Watch: UNCUT: L. Brooks Patterson talks about return to work
"I had all the odds against me but, all the prayers for me," said Patterson.
Patterson's daughter, Mary Margaret Warner, took over for her father and thanked the hospital staff that cared for him.
"We knew dad was back when the jokes came back," said Warner.
The Oakland County executive and his security officer, James Cram, were injured in a crash in August in Auburn Hills when they were hit by another car.
According to police, neither Patterson nor Cram was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.
"I have made a commitment to wear the belt every day, and if I have to become the poster boy for click it or lose it, I'll do it," Patterson said on Tuesday.
He will continue his physical therapy after he returns to office.
Patterson is currently on the Nov. 6 ballot seeking a sixth four-year term.
-- Mary Margaret Warner and her father L. Brooks Patterson