Young perseveres during ‘difficult’ 2020

Despite health issues, loss, commissioner ‘committed to serving public’

While 2020 was a challenging year for many people, it was “particularly difficult” for Lake County Commissioner Ron Young, currently serving in his third year of office.

The year began with the personal tragedy of losing his wife, Kathy, after a long illness.

Later, in June, Young was diagnosed with leukemia, cancer of the body’s blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow and the lymphatic system.

After spending three weeks at the University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland preparing for a required bone marrow transplant, Young developed an infection preventing the procedure at the originally scheduled time.

Further complicating Young’s health over the summer were the side effects of chemotherapy treatments, a compromised immune system, and the novel coronavirus pandemic, which restricted his visitors to close family and medical professionals.

During this entire time, however, Young safely participated in every commissioners meeting while also attending numerous virtual meetings with local constituents.

“The support of my fellow commissioners and other county officials motivates me to serve the public every day.”

— Lake County Commissioner Ron Young

“The citizenry of Lake County elected me to this honorable position and, while difficult at times, I have given 100 percent to ensure our county continues to be a great place to raise a family,” Young said. “The support of my fellow commissioners and other county officials motivates me to serve the public every day.”

Later, in the fall, Young was again scheduled for the transplant. On Oct. 30, he was admitted to the Cleveland Clinic in preparation for the operation. However, in mid-November he was informed that he had contracted COVID-19.

Young was admitted to TriPoint Medical Center in Concord Township where he successfully recovered from the virus in the latter part of November. Still, during this time, Young continued his responsibilities as county commissioner.

“Fortunately, Commissioner Young has recovered from COVID-19 and has regained much of his strength, while openly and very courageously battling cancer,” said Commissioner John Hamercheck. “This is a very serious situation he’s going through and while on the mend, I feel compelled to give praise to our friend and colleague for his efforts.”

Newly-appointed Commissioner John Plecnik echoed Hamercheck.

“You truly care more about Lake County than yourself and I’m really grateful for the chance to learn by your example,” Plecnik added.

Former Commissioner and newly-elected state Sen. Jerry Cirino, R-Kirtland, said Lake County is fortunate to have Young serving on the board.

“Ron has been a dedicated public servant for many years and has brought great expertise to the commission, and I look forward to many more years of public service from him,” Cirino added. “I wish him a speedy recovery.”

Young noted he was released from the hospital this week, having received the long-awaited transplant at the Cleveland Clinic.

He will be receiving outpatient care two days a week at the facility. His recovery is expected to take an additional six months.

Young expressed gratitude to his family, the citizens of Lake County, and his colleagues for their prayers, support and flexibility.

“Other than that, I’m sort of locked in my bedroom with a caretaker 24/7, so things are definitely moving in the right direction,” he said, adding he will maintain his commitment to the office of county commissioner, completing all the work expected.

“My blood counts are all going up, I’m able to walk and function, so I expect to be back among you, physically, before too long in a healthy and supportive way.”

Young