Beloved Blue Jays broadcaster shares heartwarming update
Photo credit: https://www.jacksonevents.ca
In the four years since Jamie Campbell was diagnosed with cancer, the beloved Blue Jays broadcaster has become more than just a familiar voice - he's become an advocate, openly sharing his health journey while using his platform to amplify the stories of others fighting their own battles.
Back in September, Campbell - who was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia in 2021 - welcomed Ethan Timmers, a young fan from Strathroy, Ontario, into the Jays Central broadcast booth.
Timmers, just 12 years old, comes from notable hockey lineage - his grandfather is Ken Houston, an original member of the Calgary Flames. But Ethan's passion lies firmly with baseball, and his visit to the booth came at a difficult time. He had recently been diagnosed with Stage 3A Hodgkin's lymphoma, another form of blood cancer.
On Friday, Campbell shared some incredible news: Ethan has been declared cancer-free.
Link to tweet
Campbell's openness about his own health has earned him admiration from fans and fellow patients alike. In a feature last summer with Patient Voice, he reflected on why he's made a point of sharing even the toughest moments.
When I underwent photodynamic red-light therapy for the pre-cancerous lesions on my face, leaving me looking scarred and barbecued, I didn't hesitate to share photos on social media. I missed a World Series assignment because of that treatment. People notice when I miss games, and they worry. And so I figured, if I was going through it, the people who watch Blue Jays baseball deserved to know about it. I wanted to share the experience of the treatment and show that, even if it looks difficult, it's nothing to be afraid of. I also wanted to share that it could've been avoided altogether.
Campbell isn't the only iconic Canadian broadcaster to face a cancer battle in recent years. In May 2024, longtime TSN personality Darren Dutchyshen passed away following a two-and-a-half-year fight with prostate cancer.
Through it all, Campbell's openness, resilience, and compassion have made him a source of inspiration both on and off the air.
Stay strong, Jamie.
