Riley in Hospital With Infection

Supervisor Thomas F. Riley was resting comfortably Monday after being admitted to Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach over the weekend with a foot infection.

The 81-year-old supervisor was suffering from a condition known as cellulitis, an inflammation of soft tissue, in his left foot, said Christie McDaniel, chief of staff to Riley.

He was admitted to the hospital late Sunday afternoon and was expected to remain there through the end of the week. McDaniel said it was necessary for Riley to be hospitalized because the infection can spread into the bloodstream. McDaniel said the supervisor was being treated with antibiotics and whirlpool baths. It was hoped that he could be released by Christmas Day.

“He was in quite a bit of pain Sunday,” McDaniel said. “He called his doctor who asked him to come (to the hospital). You know, he is not one for taking it easy.”

Riley has been a board member since his appointment by then-Gov. Ronald Reagan in 1974. He has announced his intention to retire when his term expires next year.