This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Fred Healey is dropping out of the Millcreek mayoral race because of his kidney cancer.
Healey, a 67-year-old businessman, came in second in the June primary election behind attorney Jeff Silvestrini, who apparently will appear alone on the November ballot because state law does not allow the primary's third-place finisher to move up.
"I have asked [Salt Lake County Clerk] Sherrie Swensen to send me whatever paperwork is necessary to make an official withdrawal," Healey said in an email to news outlets Monday evening.
He also informed Silvestrini of his decision, which he expects to finalize Tuesday.
A leader in Millcreek's efforts to incorporate as the valley's 17th city on Jan. 1, 2017, Healey attached a letter to supporters, saying, "I feel like we made it to the river Jordan but I will not cross over."
"In conference with my doctors and family, I have been advised to step down for my own health and the good of my family," Healey added. "After being hospitalized three times in nine weeks, I recognize that I must follow that advice."
Healey has said he learned shortly before the primary that his cancer had returned. But he stayed in the race, hoping treatment would enable him to continue.
It didn't, Healey added, so he's pulling out "with a tear in my eye and ache in my heart."
He encouraged supporters to vote for Silvestrini.
Third-place finisher Scott Howell, a business consultant and former state senator, has said it would be inappropriate for Millcreek's first mayor to be elected unopposed, and he vowed to try to get on the ballot if Healey withdraws.
Citing earlier cases, Swensen has said it is unlikely Howell will succeed.