Lake High School senior Justin Landes is home after spending nearly a week in the hospital following a serious injury sustained during a football game earlier this month.
Landes’ parents shared the update Thursday morning, expressing gratitude for the community’s support as their son continues to recover.
“Justin is home! He slept in his bed last night or at least part of it,” they wrote. “He has a long road yet, so keep the prayers coming please! This isn’t the way we ever imagined senior year, but we look to the small positives each day. The love and support so many have shown is unbelievable, I cannot say thank you enough!”
The news brought an outpouring of relief and encouragement from the Lake community, which has rallied around Landes and his family since his injury on Oct. 17.
What began as a typical Friday night under the lights for the Blue Streaks turned into a frightening moment when Landes was injured during the third quarter of the game against Hoover. Trainers from both teams rushed to his aid as the stadium fell silent.
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, where doctors determined he had sustained a laceration to his right kidney. He underwent surgery the following evening to repair the damage. Doctors discovered a second laceration that could not be repaired during the procedure, requiring continued monitoring throughout his hospital stay.
In the days that followed, the Lake community showed overwhelming support — from messages and prayers on social media to a fundraiser helping the Landes family with medical expenses and recovery costs. Those wishing to contribute can visit this link.
Lake Athletics also expressed gratitude to Dr. Mark Hudak of Cleveland Clinic–Mercy Hospital Sports Medicine and athletic trainers Hayley Simmons and Haley Kiko (Hoover) and Mariah Reeder and Erica Allen (Lake) for their quick and professional response.
As Justin continues his recovery at home, the Blue Streaks community remains united behind him — celebrating this milestone and continuing to cheer on one of their own.
