What started as a typical Friday night under the lights for Lake High School senior Justin Landes turned into something far more serious — and emotional — for the Blue Streaks community.
During the third quarter of the game against Hoover, Landes, a senior football standout known for his determination on and off the field, suffered a significant injury after a play. Trainers from both teams immediately rushed to his aid as the stadium grew quiet.
After being evaluated by sports medicine staff, Landes was taken from the field by the Uniontown Fire Department and transported to Akron Children’s Hospital. Doctors later discovered that he had sustained a laceration to his right kidney, an injury that required immediate attention.
By Saturday evening, Landes was in surgery to repair the damage. The procedure was successful, though doctors found an additional kidney laceration that could not be treated during the operation. He remains hospitalized but in stable condition, surrounded by family as his medical team continues to monitor his recovery and determine the best course of treatment.
In the hours since the injury, the Lake community has shown an outpouring of support — from messages and prayers on social media to offers of assistance for the Landes family. A fundraiser has been created to help the family navigate medical costs and recovery needs. Those wishing to help can do so through this link: https://www.giveinkind.com/inkinds/A8V4L1Q/justin-landes.
Lake Athletics also expressed gratitude to Dr. Mark Hudak of Cleveland Clinic–Mercy Hospital Sports Medicine, along with athletic trainers Hayley Simmons (Hoover), Haley Kiko (Hoover), Mariah Reeder (Lake), and Erica Allen (Lake) for their quick and professional response.
For now, the Lake Blue Streaks are rallying around one of their own — a senior whose strength and spirit have long been admired, and whose courage continues to inspire a community that’s always been proud to call him theirs.
