Wyandotte Mayor Returns to City Hall After Battling Pneumonia

Wyandotte Mayor Joseph Peterson is on his way to a full recovery after being admitted to the hospital for double pneumonia in both of his lungs on Jan. 28.

Peterson spent 12 days, 9 of which in intensive care, at Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital and Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.

Peterson said he is feeling better and is ready to get back to work.

"The pneumonia is nearly cleared up and I was cleared to go back to work," Peterson said Monday.

The first item on Peterson's agenda was visiting the new Wyandotte City Hall location and checking out his new third-floor office. The City Council met for the first time in the building on the same day that Peterson was admitted to the hospital. Monday night's council meeting was Peterson's first in the new building. 

"I’m so happy to be back with my colleagues," he said, choking up a little at the meeting. "I promise you that I won’t miss another month like that."

Peterson had high praise for the many doctors and nurses who assisted him. He also thanked the many concerned Wyandotte residents who sent him get well soon cards, called him on the phone to show support and sent heartfelt Facebook messages.

"I'd really like to thank them," Peterson said. "Words can't say enough. I want to thank them for their words and their prayers and I want to give a special thanks to Henry Ford (Health System) staff. Their service was second to none."