ATLANTA, Ga. -- Officer Andrew Fincher warmed up before a test that will determine the rest of his career. The test will check his endurance and stamina to make sure he can endure the physical requirements needed to protect Atlanta's streets.

"Lifting, pushing, pulling activities, crawling, climbing stairs, all functional activities that they may or may not have to do," said Kevin Baerwalde of Fitness Forum.

It looked like he was able to handle every exercise with ease, but twice over the past year Fincher's career and life almost ended for good.

In August of 2008, he was bit by an HIV-positive suspect. He didn't contract the disease, but spent months worrying he had. After returning to work, Fincher only got a few months of peace before an on-duty car accident took him off the job again.

"I was able to walk after about a week, get up and about, but not too much," said Fincher.

He suffered a herniated disc in his spine, which was replaced with a plate and four metal screws. His desire to get back on the force never diminished.

"It's just something you do, it's something I'm good at, it's something I enjoy," said Fincher. "I would have a hard time doing anything else."

And failure hasn't even crossed his mind.

"I don't see that as an option," said Fincher. "I think I did well, and if not, I'm gonna keep fighting."

Fincher won't know his future for sure until he meets with his surgeon in a few weeks. On Wednesday, his fellow officers are holding a fundraiser to help him until he can get back to work. The event will start at 7 p.m. at Manuel's Tavern on N. Highland Avenue.