Canadian actor John Reardon, best known for his Hallmark channel roles, reveals he has been quietly battling tonsil cancer.
“Last night was my first night out after my recovery from tonsil cancer. Has been a long road between these two pictures and the difference is from the love and support I received from my people in my life,” he wrote.
Tonsil cancer, sometimes called oropharyngeal cancer, occurs when a growth of cells develops in an area of the throat behind the mouth.
According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms include difficulty swallowing, swelling, and pain in the neck, or jaw stiffness, with this type of cancer often diagnosed late in the disease.
Meanwhile, Reardon acknowledged the important individuals in his life who helped with the everyday challenges he faced, adding how thankful he is for those who stood by his side.
“My amazing partner @officialmeghanory for taking on our whole world to help me get better. My brave kids who inspired me ... My Dad who took me for a walk everyday even when it was hard for me to get out of bed ... My Mom who made me soups and ginger honey tea and green juices so I could get calories into my body. My sister and brother ... All my in-laws, who are not just in-laws, they are family,” he wrote.
In response, his wife and fellow Hallmark actress Meghan Ory praised Reardon as a “hero” before expressing her love and pride for him.
“This man inspires me every day with his strength, his kindness and love that didn’t falter once even when he was in insane pain,” she posted via her Instagram stories.
Beyond family support, the “Hudson & Rex” star also expressed his gratitude for his friends, nanny, and neighbors who sent food and kind gestures, as well as the medical professionals who helped him through his battle with the disease.
“Kindness is an under appreciated quality in people. We should never under value it. Celebrate it and distribute it as much as possible. It is free and life changing. Happy Holidays,” he continued.
He also held roles in other popular blockbuster films including “White Chicks,” “Tron: Legacy,” and “Scary Movie 4.”
Herring was in the early stages of his diagnosis, and announced at the time that he will immediately begin treatment and is “expected to make a full recovery.”
