Cianci released from hospital after passing out at portrait unveiling

November 19, 2015 12:53 pm

By Kirsten Glavin

kglavin@abc6.com

A scare tonight for ABC6 News Chief Political Analyst, and former Providence Mayor, Buddy Cianci, as he was rushed to the hospital during a celebration at City Hall. He didn’t stay down for long, though, bouncing back in time to crack jokes and dine on Federal Hill.

What was supposed to be an honorable celebration commemorating the former mayor quickly turned to panic at City Hall. It was a scramble inside as emergency workers rushing to his side after the 74-year-old says he felt faint during a ceremony unveiling his official mayoral portrait.

Cianci was brought outside to a waiting ambulance, but was conscious and alert, and managed to flash a smile. All of this happened just moments after expressing his excitement for a celebration that’s been in the works for years.

"It’s very warm. It’s very good. The feeling is great amongst the crowd, and I couldn’t be happier to be here," he said.

After about an hour in the hospital, Cianci said he was good to go and went right over to a planned reception on Federal Hill. He chalked up his scare to dehydration, due to being in a hot room with a lot of people.

"I felt a little lightheaded. I just finished my pasta, now I’m on my chicken parmesan, and I’ll be at work tomorrow!" he said.