ELLERBE — One candidate for county commissioner is dropping out of the race.
Berry Patch owner and former Ellerbe Mayor Lee Berry announced Friday afternoon that he would have to withdraw due to medical issues with his disabled son, Jack.
Jack Berry began having seizures as a baby and was diagnosed with Dravet Syndrome, which is a form of epilepsy, at the age of 6.
“I would like to thank everyone who supported me in the primary election,” Berry said in a statement on Facebook. “This has been a hard decision to make and for the last month I have been praying about this and this has been the answer the Lord has given.
“Also, I want to thank my wife for her support in listening to me as I make this decision,” he continued. “I hope everyone will understand and respect my decision. Please keep Amy and myself in your prayers along with our family!”
He added: “Dravet Syndrome is a ugly disease.”
In the Republican primary back in March, Berry brought in 2,333 votes (34.29 percent), the highest of the candidates.
Following him were Jeff Smart (28.9%) and Andy Grooms (19.27%) and Jim Entwistle (17.54%).
Elections Director Connie Kelly said the Richmond County Republican Party executive committee will need to appoint someone to fill the vacancy no later than early August.
