I Made the Move: Paramedic seizes the moment, moves his family back home

The Reimer Family recently moved to qathet from the Fraser Valley. Well, four of them did... one of them is moving back after more than 25 years away.

Dad Chris grew up here and moved away in 1995, leaving parents, sisters and many friends behind. Recently Chris’ job as a Primary Care Paramedic with BC Emergency Health Services presented him with an opportunity to come home and serve his community.

Chris jumped at the chance, bringing wife Teresa, an administrative professional and their three children, Cash 18, Jacob 15, and Olivia 13.

The family has quickly joined the community, with Jacob joining 2781 BC Regiment Cadet corps and Olivia continued her tradition of dancing by starting up with Laszlo Tamasik Dance Academy. They look forward to exploring all the region has to offer.

Why did you choose to move to qathet?

Chris • We chose qathet because I grew up here and the ambulance service had a full-time position here that I had enough seniority to earn. It’s been the goal for a while now to come up here.

When? Where from?

Chris • We moved in October 2022 from Agassiz in the Eastern Fraser Valley.

What surprised you about qathet once you moved?

Chris • There weren’t a ton of surprises really. My family is here and we’ve visited a minimum of once or twice a year for the past 20 years.

What made you decide to move to qathet?

Chris • Family ties and slower pace at work for me.

Where is your favourite place in qathet?

Chris • I have several, but our absolute favorite has to be my Aunt and Uncle’s cabin up the lake. No cell signal, no Wi-Fi, just swimming, books, and good company. What more could we want?

What would make qathet a nicer community?

Chris • A lack of primary care physicians is a clear missing piece of the puzzle for sure!

What aspect of your previous community do you think would benefit qathet?

Chris • Agassiz threw a heck of a fall fair, complete with baking contests, etc. A return to that would be awesome here. Seafair was always a big time of year here, and I’m sure I’m not the only one who misses it. I haven’t experienced Blackberry Festival yet though, so I’m reserving judgment totally.

GEE IT’S GOOD TO BE BACK HOME AGAIN: Chris Reimer grew up here, and brought his family back with him after 25 years away: (from left to right) Cash, 18, Chris, Teresa, Jacob, 15, and Olivia, 13.

What challenges did you face in trying to make a life for yourself here?

Chris • The Real Estate market is a big hurdle. That held us up significantly.

What are qathet’s best assets?

Chris • Assets have to be the outdoor adventures to be had! Hiking, fishing, paddle boarding, the list goes on. Even if all you can do is drive, the views are still stunning.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Chris • Extravagance....hmm. I think our upcoming renovations would probably have to be on that list. I want to make us the best home we’ve ever had and I’m excited for it to be here.

Which superpower would you most like to have?

Chris • The talent I wish I had was to heal with a simple touch, even though it would eventually put me out of a job!