Support for Jamie Reichheld

For those of you lucky enough to know Jamie, you know he is the first one to offer a helping hand, strike up a friendly conversation or maybe even share a witty joke. He has a contagious energy that shines brightly in all facets of his life. To know Jamie, is to love Jamie.

Throughout the years Jamie has built a solid, fulfilling and eventful life for himself. Growing up in Haldimand County he is no stranger to the hockey rink or ball diamond. He has been a dedicated employee to CGC for over 20 years, a fearlessly loyal friend to many, an admirable and considerate brother, a caring and empathetic son, and a loving and supportive husband to Jill. But, above all else – he is a proud father to his sons, Jayden and Jase.

In November of 2022, Jamie sought out medical attention for a subtle spot under his tongue. Unknowingly, this small spot would send him down a path of worry and uncertainty for the next two and a half years.

This spot presented as cancer, and he was formally diagnosed with Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). Jamie underwent a procedure to remove this spot and return his body to a healthy state. He took minimal time off work to recover from this procedure, and he was quick to resume his life and do his best to not miss a beat.

After this unexpected and scary discovery was taken care of, Jamie returned to normalcy. Working to provide for his family, running back and forth between the rink and the diamond and sharing in all the great things life has to offer.

Less than 2 years later, in September of 2024 he was burdened with the news that the cancer had returned. This time, in his neck. This was devastating news to Jamie and his entire support system. Jamie knew that the road ahead of him was rocky, stressful and full of the unknown. The treatment this time was far more aggressive, but Jamie was determined to handle it with strength and resilience. He underwent invasive surgery to remove the cancer that was present in his neck, followed by months of chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

Jamie was off work for several months to undergo this necessary surgery and receive the adequate treatment that followed. It was a difficult time to navigate for Jamie, Jill, Jayden, Jase, their family and their friends. The days were filled with worry and sadness, but hope was never lost. On December 31st 2024, Jamie rang the ‘Victory Bell’ signifying the end of this emotional journey. He was ending this chapter in his life and writing a new chapter - cancer free.

After 5 dreadful months of surgery, treatment and recovery – Jamie returned to work in March 2025. He felt the love and support from his community and the glow of positivity that the worst of it was over and he could begin living his life again.

March 27th 2025, Jamie had a follow-up appointment with his doctor to ensure that everything continued to remain in a state of health and his recovery was progressing. The news the doctor shared with him that day was cruel, shattering and unforgiving. His cancer was back. It presented in his neck again, with small spots detected in his lungs. On top of it all, the doctor made it known that surgery was not an option this time. Everything that Jamie and his loved ones hoped for, was crushed.

Jamie is now faced with a new treatment plan of immunotherapy infusions to help treat and suppress this punishing disease. Jamie continues to work and maintain some level of normalcy while completing his treatments and battling the other stressors that stem from his unfair reality. Although Jamie, Jill and their family are courageous, determined and positive - the weight of this battle is beginning to catch up with them in other aspects of their life.

In conjunction with his immunotherapy treatments, Jamie will also be trialling the use of vitamin c injections to help combat his cancer. These injections show promise, but they come at a considerable price. Given the reality of being on leave from work earlier this year and still being faced with the everyday financial demands of raising a young family, these injections remain a costly but worthy factor in his journey.

Jamie continues to be the strong, loyal, loving and reliable man that we all know. Through the years Jamie has never questioned helping those in his community. Now it is our turn to return the favor and show the Reichheld family the same unwavering kindness and support.

With gratitude,

Abby