Jason Loree Has Served For 19 Years, Now Fighting Polycistic Kidney Disease
     
      BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree, 43, announced on Monday he is pursuing a disability while battling polycystic kidney disease, a genetic disease that brings multiple cysts to the kidneys and possibly the liver and is accompanied by high blood pressure, flank pain, fatigue and some gastrointestinal issues.
      Loree said he has filed disability papers and is also on the transplant list at the Cleveland Clinic.
      “I may be taking leave due to my health and I’ll return for as long as I can to help this community.
      “My commitment to the township is strong and I’ll be able to help out during this time. I intend to be here as long as I can, to keep working,” he told Trustees Larry Moliterno, Tom Costello and Steve Yacovone, adding “I just want to make sure my condition is known.
      “ I have to find a way to step back a little bit and focus on my health.”
      Showing emotion, Loree said he will be meeting with his primary physicians “to see how my body has changed, and about some of the problems I have been having. I’ll be looking into the possibility of going into some disability benefits.”
      Loree has served as Boardman Township Administrator for 19 years.
      “I think it is safe to say, the work you have done, and the knowledge you have and all that you have done for this township is something we could not have done without you,” Moliterno said, adding “Your impact will be felt for a long time.”
      Costello noted “You have supported and helped us in so many ways. Now it is our time to help you in your time of need.”
      Loree noted “A lot of my family members have been affected by this disease. It has been called a ‘curse’ and while it is terrible, it has made me realize how time is precious and family and friends are important.”
      Loree said the disease has been in his family for years.
      His mom passed away from the disease as he said “I was going to give my mother mine but turned out I also had the curse.
      “Wish me luck as I continue down this journey.”