My MetroHealth Story - Ricardo León

Since 2019, Ricardo León has served on The MetroHealth Foundation Board of Directors. In that time, he’s brought not only his professional expertise as President and CEO of the Cuyahoga Land Bank, but also a deeply personal commitment to MetroHealth’s mission.

“I’m a lifelong Clevelander,” Ricardo says. “And MetroHealth has always been part of the fabric of this city. But for me, it’s also part of my family’s story.”

Ricardo’s mother, who lives with dementia, receives her specialty care at MetroHealth. From neurology to rehabilitation, the care she receives has made a meaningful difference in her quality of life.

“MetroHealth has been amazing for her,” Ricardo shares. “She’s had health episodes that led her to the Emergency Department, and compared to other EDs in town, the quality at MetroHealth is just higher. It’s exceptional care.”

That experience has shaped Ricardo’s view of the system – not just as a Foundation Board member, but as a son and advocate.

“When people ask why I serve on the Foundation Board, I tell them: MetroHealth is just as good as any other health system. Better, in many ways. Their perception doesn’t always match reality.”

Ricardo’s belief in MetroHealth goes beyond clinical care. Through his work at the county level and his involvement with the Institute for H.O.P.E.™, he’s seen firsthand how MetroHealth addresses the social determinants of health – meeting people where they are, in schools, neighborhoods and homes.

“I believe in the work,” he says. “And I believe in the direction that MetroHealth President and CEO Dr. Christine Alexander is leading us. MetroHealth matters because it’s in it for the community in a real way.”

Ricardo’s connection to MetroHealth is also shaped by loss. His father and sister both passed away, but received extraordinary care at MetroHealth during their final days.

“The care they received was top-notch,” he says. “It made difficult situations easier. That kind of compassion stays with you.”

As a member of the Generations Society, Ricardo continues to invest in MetroHealth’s future – not just financially, but through leadership and advocacy.

“My commitment to serving on the Foundation Board is driven by a deep desire to uplift our community’s health,” he says. “Every decision I’m able to contribute to is a stitch in the fabric of our collective well-being.”

For Ricardo León, MetroHealth isn’t just a hospital. It’s a mission. It’s a legacy. And it’s a promise – to care for every person, in every neighborhood, with dignity and excellence.