A young firefighter in a community north of New York City is facing a very difficult recovery after a flu bug that hospitalized him worsened to the point where he required several life-saving surgeries.
In a post on its Facebook page, New City Fire Engine Co. No. 1 has updated the condition of 19-year-old probationary firefighter Will McCue, who was hospitalized in February due to complications from the flu and whose true condition was being kept quiet due to his family's wishes.
"Will’s family now feels it is time to let people know just how hard a battle Will is continuing to fight," the Facebook post reads.
In a heartbreaking turn of events, McCue's condition progressed to pneumonia, which then caused issues with sepsis throughout his body. As the teen's condition worsened, his doctors were forced the take life-saving measures.
With McCue's extremities suffering the bacterial and toxic effects of the sepsis, doctors had to amputate both of his feet, one hand at the wrist and the fingers on his other hand below the knuckles. He also suffered severe tissue damage to one leg and is dealing with several organ issues.
"The good news is Will is showing several signs of improvement," the post reads. "He is conscious and aware of what’s happening. He is no longer on continual dialysis, and has been removed from his ventilator completely."
As in our previous reporting on McCue's condition, a link to a GoFundMe page is being provided for anyone who would like to help McCue's family deal with the mounting medical costs they face during his recovery. As of Thursday afternoon, over $68,000 has been raised.
New City is a hamlet within the town of Clarkstown about 18 miles north of New York City.
