Firefighter who survived severe infection released from hospital

NEW YORK (FOX5NY.COM) - The sounds of bagpipes and cheers greeted New City firefighter Will McCue as he left Montefiore Hospital Wednesday. Family, friends, and fellow firefighters were on hand to let him know he is not alone.

McCue, 19, had been in the hospital since February when a bout with the flu turned into something far more serious. McCue went into septic shock so severe that doctors were forced to amputate both his hands, his left foot, and his right leg to save his life.

New City Fire Chief Rich Willows said that McCue has been made a lifetime member of the department, which is holding several community fundraisers to help him and his family down the road.

Police and the Red Knights Firefighters Motorcycle Club accompanied his ambulance to a rehab center in Rockland County—a further show of support that won't end there.

Willy's uniform and helmet await his return at the New City Fire Department in Rockland County. The teen volunteered here as a probationary firefighter and was a 2016 graduate of Clarkstown High School North. His former football coach set up a GoFundMe page to help.