LINCOLN, Neb. -- A man who used to run and coach track is learning how to walk again in Lincoln.

Bob White, 53, practiced walking at a Lincoln mall on Wednesday before he gets to go home on Thursday.

"This has been a long stay, emotionally and physically for him," said White's wife, Susan.

He and his brother were hit by a driver charged with drunken driving over the holidays as they stood along Interstate 80. Bob White has had to first fight for his life, and then to save his leg. Susan White said he's been the picture of courage.

"I've learned so much from him," she said. "I can't imagine what it's like to lose something you've had for 53 years and learn how to get along without it."

The Lincoln community has been a tremendous source of support, the White said. Students at Lincoln High School started "White outs" at home basketball games to raise money, and the events caught on across the city.

"It has been amazing, from small gestures of kindness, to huge offerings to help our family," Susan White said.

White's journey is far from over. He's invited to be an official at the Olympic trials in Oregon this summer, and his wife said he plans to be there.

Susan White said that the next phase is for Bob to be fitted for a prosthetic. She also said that one of the things that has helped his recovery is that he was in such good shape before the crash.

A benefit run/walk for the Whites is planned at 3 p.m. Feb. 23 at Haymarket Park.

Visit InTheO.com and search "Bob White" for more information.