CLEVELAND — Dr. Amy Acton, former director of the Ohio Department of Health during the critical early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, is teaming up with WKYC Studios to create a series of enlightening reports titled “Health, Hope & Healing.”
Each "Health, Hope, & Healing" story will provide context and science to health issues that we don’t even realize challenge us daily.
Dr. Acton will also introduce viewers to the influential figures and organizations in our community who are meeting these health & wellness matters head-on. From the mental health crisis to the loneliness epidemic and so much more, “Health, Hope & Healing” will have information on how you can get involved and make a difference on these critical elements of society, as we continue to heal from the pandemic.
“I’m looking forward to shining a light on the power of healing, something our society needs now more than ever before,” says Dr. Acton. “The public health challenges we face are troubling but through our reporting, we’ll introduce an element of realistic hope, amplified by the remarkable health institutions & inspirational residents of Northeast Ohio, reminding us all what’s possible when we come together.”
Acton’s first “Health, Hope & Healing” story will air on WKYC the week of October 9, followed by a half-hour special on Thursday, October 12 at 7 p.m.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Amy and her passion for public health to WKYC this fall,” News Director Jon Adkins adds, “As our region charges ahead in this post-pandemic world, it’s clear we’re still navigating through a series of complex health issues that need to be brought to the forefront of our daily conversation.”
Amy Acton, MD, MPH, is a licensed physician in Preventive Medicine and Public Health with over 30 years of experience in executive leadership, philanthropy, public service, teaching, and advocacy. Among her many honors, Dr. Acton received the JFK Library Profile in COVID Courage Award for her leadership as Director of the Ohio Department of Health during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. She was recently named one of USA Today’s Women of the Year. She has also been featured in the New York Times, Glamour, and most recently, Smithsonian Magazine. Acton also received The Columbus Foundation’s 2020 Spirit of Columbus Award and is a recipient of Ohio State University’s highest alumni honor - The Ohio State Alumni Medalist Award.
