ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- After suffering a traumatic brain injury, 7Everyday Hero Michael Hancey decided he need to give back to the place that helped save his life.
He volunteers at Craig Hospital in Englewood.
"He has worked here for a long time," said Kim Kjergaard of Craig Hospital.
"He is a delight to have around. He is a true gift to us," added Craig Hospital CEO Mike Fordyce.
Every Monday and Thursday for nearly 20 years, Hancey has been delivering the mail at Craig.
"But the main thing that he does is he tells jokes," Kjergaard said.
"He always has jokes," said Fordyce.
"This little piggy went into a bar and he ordered 15 shots of rum. And the bartender asked him, 'Are you sure you don't need to use the bathroom before you go?' And the little piggy said "No, I'm going to go wee, wee, wee all the way home," Hancey said.
Michael's relationship with Craig Hospital started years ago after he suffered a traumatic brain injury.
The accident impaired his speech and ability to walk, but not his willingness to help others.
His doctor all those years ago has seen Hancey's impact.
"23 years ago we met. You have sure brought a lot of love into people's lives," Alan H. Weintraub, M.D., said to Hancey.
After being discharged from the hospital, Hancey had an idea.
"I asked them, 'Well, do you need a mailman?' They said they did. So, they can't get rid of me now," Hancey said.
He is just amazing. He's just a bright soul around here. He brings in some really good energy," said Ashley Crane of Craig Hospital.
Michael Hancey delivers mail, tells jokes, but most of all he brings hope to staff and patients.
"When they have patients who are discouraged with their therapies and don't think they are going anywhere, they'll have me go to those patients and tell them my story and show them how much therapies have helped me out over the years," Hancey said.
No wonder he's an honorary assistant CEO at Craig. His name tag reflects that.
"We are just grateful that he is here. And we really enjoy Michael," Kjergaard said.
Mitch Jelniker anchors Denver7 in the mornings from 4:30 to 7 a.m. He also features a different 7Everyday Hero each week on Denver7. Follow Mitch on Facebook and Twitter. Nominate a 7Everyday Hero here.
