Former NFL running back Peyton Hillis says he expects to make a full recovery after being hospitalized earlier this year when he rescued several people during a swimming accident in Florida.

As part of a lengthy social media post, Hillis expressed thanks for the "love and support" he received and for the help staff at the hospital gave him, saying each made "all the difference" in his recovery.

Hillis reportedly aided in a water rescue Jan. 4 off the coast of Pensacola that involved at least one family member.