LaPorte County Sheriff’s Deputy Jon Samuelson is showing encouraging signs of progress as he continues recovering from injuries suffered in a May shooting.

Samuelson recently stopped wearing the cervical collar he had needed since May 22. He also transitioned to outpatient rehabilitation before returning to inpatient care at the same Illinois facility because of equipment-related issues.

According to an update on his recovery, Samuelson has begun regaining subtle sensation in his thighs, buttocks and lower back. His upper-body strength and balance have also improved, allowing him to sit upright more comfortably and perform modified push-ups from a seated position.

Early last week, Samuelson reached another significant milestone when he moved his right big toe on command.

Samuelson and his wife, Quinn, were also reunited with their service-certified chocolate Labrador, Mable. It was the first time the three had been together since the shooting.

Samuelson was shot May 22 at Franciscan Health Hospital in Michigan City. Prosecutors charged 22-year-old Chicago resident Sharod Grafton with attempted murder, battery against a public safety official and auto theft in connection with the incident.

Samuelson remains in rehabilitation as he continues working toward his recovery.