Five-year-old Andres Arambula has been fighting for his life since October after he was shot in what police call a road rage incident, but he has now been cleared to go back to school and participate in activities.

“He’s able to run, jump, play like a normal kid again,” said Angelo Arambula, Andres’ father. 

You would never know by looking at Andres just a month ago. He went through one of the scariest days of his life. 

Andres was shot in the abdomen during a road rage incident involving his family’s Tahoe and a Mustang with three passengers. The bullet that struck him lacerated his kidney and liver and lodged into his hip bone, breaking it.

But, after dozens of doctors appointments and a lengthy hospital stay, Andres is back in action. 

His dad said Andres is happy to be able to be with his siblings again.

“They’re really excited to be back and play with him,” Angelo said. “Playing on the phone and playing tug of war and playing cards.”

His mother was visibly emotional during KSN’s first interview with her as she said she feared for what would happen next. But now, she said she’s thankful. 

“Since he’s been released and we’re at home, I’m so happy to see all of them playing,” Lucero said. “You know, kids being kids.”

Doctors are Wesley Medical Center once thought Andres wouldn’t survive and later told his family, he may never walk again. 

But, the tough kid proved them wrong.

“The bullet fragment that was in his spine, they decided to leave it there because they don’t see it affecting him later in life,” Angelo said. 

His dad is happy Andres is okay, but said it’s been a rough journey. 

“My biggest worry is I hope this doesn’t set him back in life,” Angelo said. “My biggest goal is for him to become a football player and play for the Dallas Cowboys one day. Do better than I did.”

Leaning on their faith, the Arambula family is making new memories together, putting what they’ve been through behind them.

“He’s back to being his normal self again, and I couldn’t ask for anything better.”

Andres has been cleared from doing physical therapy for now, but his parents said doctors will keep a close eye on him in the coming years. 

He is now going to school full-time, but gets tired easily. 

His mom said he enjoys meeting people who recognize him at the grocery store and has expressed how happy he is that so many people in the community helped him. 

The Arambula family has a GoFundMe page for medical costs. To help or visit the page, click here.