Will Barton, the 20-year-old 2010 graduate of Point Loma High who was severely injured in a bizarre, random shooting by a deranged gunman, continues to amaze his family, friends and the community with his fighting spirit and milestones in his recovery.

Barton, who was shot three times in the head Oct. 29 by a fugitive, passed a “swallow test” Nov. 26 at Scripps Mercy Hospital in San Diego. Given ice chips afterward, he told his family they tasted “amazing.”

Barton had not been able to eat since the shooting.

On Nov. 27, Barton was moved to an acute-care facility in Hillcrest, where he is building strength before he is scheduled to be moved to a specially selected rehabilitation facility to begin physical therapy.

A tracheotomy in Barton’s throat was fully removed Nov. 30 and he enjoyed a special treat: pancakes and eggs for breakfast.

His progress has given medical specialists and his family optimism.