McDermott ‘humbled’ by community response following hospital stay
September 27, 2025 at 6:24 AM
Ward 1 Councillor George McDermott is recovering from a serious lung infection after being rushed to Greater Niagara General Hospital earlier this week.
McDermott said friends insisted he seek care after several days of illness, leading to a hospital stay and treatment for what doctors told him was similar to pneumonia. Residents responded with messages, food and encouragement, which he says demonstrates the town’s spirit.
“I had been not feeling very good for four or five days and one of my friends came by and said, well, you got to go to the hospital,” McDermott told Fort Erie Radio in an interview. “They got me in an ambulance and got me to where I had to be.”
That friend was Vince Salvatori, who owns Fate Salon on Jarvis Street. McDermott said Salvatori recognized he was unwell and refused to let him delay treatment.
He described the care at Greater Niagara General as excellent, praising Niagara’s nurses for their professionalism and kindness.
Councillor George McDermott is recovering at home after a brief hospital stay. Credit: George McDermott | FacebookMcDermott said he shared his story on social media to encourage others not to ignore warning signs.
“Sometimes you get wrapped up in your work,” he said. “You really don’t think about it. Hopefully people will take action a little bit quicker than I did.”
Since returning home, he has been surprised by the volume of food and well wishes arriving at his door.
“The number of messages I’ve got is just incredible and it’s really humbling that people would bother to pay that much attention,” said McDermott.
The councillor, who soon turns 73, said he believes the support reflects Fort Erie’s close ties.
“It’s one of those two-way streets where we’d all do the same for each other. It’s a special community.”
McDermott said he is focused on recovery and grateful to those who stepped in when he could not recognize the severity of his illness.
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About The Author
Andrew Hawlitzky
Andrew is a Niagara community journalist who has covered everything from local politics to annual festivals and breaking news. He works to make local news a platform where community voices lead the conversation. "If you don't like the news, go out and make some!"
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