WKYC Channel 3 news anchor, Jim Donovan, faces Leukemia diagnosis once again

Jim Donovan, the esteemed news anchor for WKYC Channel 3, has received the distressing news of a relapse in his battle with leukemia. Having previously battled chronic lymphocytic leukemia since 2000 and undergoing a bone marrow transplant in 2011, Jim is now focused on undergoing treatment for this recurrence.

During an episode of 3 News' Front Row on Wednesday, he candidly shared his health update with viewers, shedding light on the reasons behind his new look and hairstyle.

Reflecting on his health journey, Jim stated, "There's a story to the new look and hairstyle that I'm sporting here tonight. It was about a year and a half ago that I noticed that something was amiss with my health."


He emphasized that those who have known him throughout the years are familiar with his ongoing fight against leukemia and the previous bone marrow transplant. Regrettably, he revealed that he had received news of a relapse.

Jim Donovan has commenced treatment for his illness, which includes an 18-month course of chemotherapy, supplemented by various internal and oral medications that have shown promise.

However, he intends to explore more comprehensive treatment options and acknowledged the common side effect of hair loss associated with chemotherapy. He stated, "This is going to be kind of a long and winding road through this treatment plan because it's going to be pretty aggressive. I've got to get healthy, got to move on. I know the deal. I've done it before and I plan to do it once again."


Expressing gratitude to WKYC Channel 3 and his family, Jim Donovan acknowledged their unwavering support in his cancer journey. While his family is aware of his leukemia diagnosis, they are prepared to face this challenge together once more.

Jim expressed confidence in the medical professionals at the Seidman Cancer Center at University Hospitals, who are diligently overseeing his care. Determined to continue his work as much as possible, he shared, "But there are going to be periods of time where I might not be with you. That might be a day, might be for a longer period of time. We'll just have to see how the treatment plan goes and see how I react to it all."

Jim Donovan initially received his chronic lymphocytic leukemia diagnosis in 2000. He valiantly fought against the condition for nearly 11 years before undergoing bone marrow surgery in 2011, necessitating a temporary leave from his work duties.
As Jim embarks on this challenging journey once again, the entire WKYC Channel 3 family and the community at large stand beside him, offering support, strength, and well-wishes. Jim's determination and resilience serve as an inspiration to many as he faces leukemia with unwavering courage.

FAQs

Does Jim Donovan have a partner?
Jim Donovan, his wife (Cheryl), and daughter (Meghan) live in Hinckley, Ohio.

What kind of leukemia does Jim Donovan have?
Donovan was originally diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in 2000. He eventually had a bone-marrow transplant in the summer of 2011.