Writer & Photographer / Keeley Miller
During HSE’s annual Royals for the Cure Pink Game, a selected cancer survivor is chosen to be honored as the year’s honorary coach. This year, the honor was given to the family of Thomas Reece who passed away from cancer in May 2015.
Reece was involved in Hamilton Southeastern Football through his two sons and his own participation as the head of the Helmet Crew. A true Royals Dad, Reece raised spirits at every game.
After being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in May 2011, Reece faced years of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. Not letting cancer get in his way, he continued to run a company, travel the world and even complete a Warrior Dash.
Reece’s family was presented with a plaque during halftime of the Pink Game September 4. Even his son Kyle joined from Texas through FaceTime.
“Most importantly, [this plaque] remembers how hard he fought, and he never let cancer beat him,” said wife Karen. “He actually beat cancer. He lived his life on his terms, and he never let it stop him from doing anything.”
