UPDATE - January 18, 2026

Ray is now a little over one month post-op and doing well. His CT swallow test showed no leaks, so he’s been cleared to begin introducing liquids. They've recently met with the surgeon and things have progressed to starting to introduce solid foods again.

During surgery, a total of 12 lymph nodes were removed. One did come back showing cancer cells, which was expected. The pathology report, however, showed clear margins, and they believe they were able to remove everything. To be thorough, they would still like him to complete his final four cycles of chemotherapy to address any remaining cells.

Once Ray gets back to eating normally, the feeding tube will be removed. He has regained some weight, treatment will resume—hopefully in early February.

He did develop a DVT in his lower calf and is currently on blood thinners. Since it is below the knee, the surgeon is not overly concerned.

Once again, thank you to everyone who has supported us and continues to do so. It truly means so much

UPDATE - November 5, 2025

Ray finished his 4th treatment cycle on October 28th. It’s been a challenging journey, and he’s looking forward to a well-deserved break.

His surgery is scheduled for December 10th in Kelowna.

A CT scan on October 7th showed no metastatic spread, which is wonderful news. While the main tumour was not easily visible, a lymph node that had previously been concerning has decreased in size — a clear sign that the treatment is working.

We’re so grateful for all the love, prayers, and support from family, friends, and everyone following Ray’s journey. Your messages, donations, and encouragement truly lift his spirits and help him keep moving forward.

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Update - September 21, 2025 from Amber, Ray and Bella:

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After a few changes to Ray’s original treatment plan, he is now on a modified FLOTT protocol. His next infusion is scheduled for September 23, and then he will begin two weeks of oral chemotherapy. That will wrap up cycle 3 out of 4. Once the fourth cycle is complete, the plan is still to move forward with surgery, after giving his body some time to rest and recover from treatment.

So far, Ray has been doing well, all things considered. The side effects have been present but manageable, and his strength and outlook remain steady.

We continue to be humbled by the kindness, generosity, and encouragement from each of you. Your support—whether through donations, messages, or simply keeping us in your thoughts—truly helps us keep going.

With gratitude and love,

Ray, Amber & Bella

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Update - August 18, 2025

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On behalf of Ray, Amber and Bella we'd like to extend a big thanks to all who have stepped up and contributed to this. Without the support of this community an already heavy burden becomes much less manageable.

Ray has undergone the 1st of 4 courses of treatment as part of the initial plan. With the exception of a few days he is responding well and is in a great state of mind.

If you haven't contributed yet, please consider helping it in any way you can. If contributions via this platform aren't your thing, reach out to me directly, we have a separate account set up, or can organize getting cash directly to them via the Bowling Center.

Thanks

Brandon

Hi everybody,

On June 5th, Ray and Amber received a phone call that we all fear but Ray had suspected: Cancer.

After a long month of tests, waiting, and holding breath, they received the official diagnosis on July 25th: early stage 3 adenocarcinoma of the esophagus.

The plan moving forward is intense but a positive prognosis to recovery, however the journey will be long. He’ll start with 8 weeks of chemo, take a short break to rest and recover before undergoing major surgery. Following this, he will require a feeding tube while recovering, followed by another 8 weeks of chemo. Ray is expected to be off work for 12 months, with his main focus being rest, healing, and intense treatment.

Ray’s the main provider for his partner Amber and his 13-year-old daughter, Bella. The shift in day-to-day life has already brought some extra costs: dietary changes, travel cost, vehicle repair and supplies that will continue to add up. We’re hoping to lift some of that weight off their shoulders so they can focus on what actually matters: rest, family, and managing treatment.

If you know Ray and Amber, you know how much they’ve poured into the Beaver Valley bowling community, often seen running leagues, hosting events, late nights, early mornings, and building friendships that stretch far and wide. They’ve always shown up for others, and now they need our help and it’s our turn to show up for them. If you’re able to donate, share, or send some support their way, it truly means the world. With so much love and support behind him, we’re doing everything we can to help make this next chapter a little lighter for Ray and his family.

To any community partners or local organizations willing to support our family during this time, please reach out to: Jenica Bouliane at [email redacted] or myself at [email redacted]

Thank you, your help and kindness means more than you know