On a crisp Saturday afternoon, dozens of high school teams gathered at Brewer’s Heddericg Field for a field hockey play day that quickly turned into a heartfelt fundraiser for Jeremy Bousquet, the athletic director at Old Town High School, and his wife Rachel.
A Community United
Teams from Brewer, Orono, Nokomis, Old Town, Hermon, Hampden Academy and Dexter took to the turf, each expressing admiration for Jeremy’s decades of service and his unwavering support of their programs. Players recalled how he mentored them on and off the field, making the event feel less like a competition and more like a collective show of gratitude.
The Bousquets’ health struggles added urgency to the day. Jeremy is currently undergoing treatment for Stage 3 neuroendocrine cancer and colorectal adenocarcinoma, while Rachel was diagnosed with Stage 1 thyroid cancer in February and recently underwent surgery. The fundraiser aimed not only to ease the financial burden of medical expenses but also to shine a light on the broader challenges families face when confronting serious illness.
Beyond the Game
Beyond the on‑field action, the event served as a platform to raise awareness about the specific cancers affecting the Bousquet family. Organizers highlighted the importance of early detection and regular screenings, hoping the conversation would extend beyond the local community and inspire broader advocacy.
Online donation links shared on Facebook and GoFundMe have continued to attract contributions, ensuring that the support for the Bousquets extends well beyond the single day of play. The outpouring of generosity reflects a deep‑rooted belief that sports can be a conduit for compassion and community healing.