Egan Bernal, who nearly lost his life in a collision with a bus two weeks ago, felt "reborn" and paid tribute to doctors who gave him a "second chance."

The Colombian, who broke 20 bones and underwent two spinal surgeries, was discharged from the intensive care unit at Bogota's Clinica Universidad de la Sabana on Sunday.

Upon leaving the hospital, he stood briefly for a photo with medical staff, friends, and family. He then sat back in his wheelchair and delivered a video message before returning home to continue his recovery.

"My life changed in an instant. One minute I'm preparing for the Tour de France, giving it my all on a time trial bike, and the next I'm fighting for my life."

Bernal crashed into the back of a stationary bus while riding his bike, fracturing his right femur and kneecap, as well as his upper spine; he underwent surgery to stabilize the fractures in his T5 and T6 vertebrae, but fortunately his spinal cord was not damaged.

He also underwent surgery on his femur and kneecap, and treatment for a collapsed lung.

Bernal expected a 95 percent chance of becoming paralyzed or losing his life completely. [Fortunately, I fell into good hands. If it hadn't been for you guys [the doctors], it would have been a different story.

"As a matter of fact, it's like a rebirth for me. Every day that I was in pain, I said to myself, 'At least I feel pain, at least I feel something.'

"I am now beginning a very long process, obviously. And I'm really grateful to them for giving me a second chance. And I really appreciate you giving me a second chance."

"I really appreciate you giving me a second chance.

Bernal will now return home to begin rehabilitation, but it is not entirely clear at this time when or if he will be able to resume his career as a professional cyclist.