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   BRIGHTON - Terry Moore’s role as executive director of the non-profit Almost Home is predicated on serving the needs of others.

    But even as Moore continued his recuperation from a June illness last week at Brighton Care Center, he couldn’t help but wonder if the room he has called home for about two weeks could be put to better use.

    “I’m healthier and younger than most of the patients here,” Moore said. “You’d like to save this space for somebody that’s in more need of it and free it up for them.”

    Moore was optimistic that could be as soon as this week, when he hoped he would be released from the nursing center where he has undergone physical and occupational therapy since June 25.

    Moore’s saga began after he was found unconscious the evening of June 11 in his car at the RTD Park-n-Ride in the Brighton Pavilions. Moore remembers going to the nearby Starbucks drive-through that morning to get a cup of coffee and then parking his car. He doesn’t remember anything else and admitted that’s a little troubling.

    “It’s disconcerting to have a large chapter of life you’re missing,” he said.

    Moore, 57, spent the next few days unconscious in the intensive care unit of Swedish Medical Center. He says, as an insulin-dependent diabetic, his blood sugar level dropped to a critically low level and triggered the spell. It was further complicated when he developed a case of pneumonia.

    But since he regained full consciousness June 16, Moore has taken a steady road to recovery. The path, no doubt, was brightened by having oldest daughter Stephanie by his side for much of the time and also by the prayers and well wishes of people from the Brighton community and across the country. Moore said the outpouring of support was stirring but not too surprising, as he considers the close-knit bond of the Brighton community.

    It reaffirmed what the 12-year resident already knew about the town.

    “This is home,” he said simply.

    The time spent, first in a hospital bed and then catching his breath between therapy sessions, has given Moore time for reflection.

    “I think it’s always a good time to be reflective,” he said. “I don’t think any one of us have any guaranteed amount of time. I’m fortunate because of the kids in my life that are important. The friends, who’ve gone above and beyond, really deserve more of my time than I share with them.”

    “I think I can be a better friend,” he added.

    He wanted to let community members know “he is doing just fine” and still welcomes visitors for however long he remains at Brighton Care Center. Moore added he looks forward to a nice “Welcome Back” party when he can resume his work at Almost Home.