On a tranquil Thursday evening in early July, Colleen Jones and I sat in her cozy living room on Newton Avenue in Halifax, basking in the warm glow of the setting sun peeking through the blinds. Adorned with curling memorabilia celebrating her family and life achievements, her home exuded a sense of serenity and inspiration.
Lying comfortably on the floor with a pillow supporting her head and a blanket draped over her, Colleen, determined and resilient, was recovering from recent emergency hip surgery, refusing to succumb to crutches. Her unwavering goal was not just to regain her ability to walk but also to return to the curling rink.
As we continued our conversation, Colleen shared profound insights about surrendering to life’s uncertainties and embracing each moment with gratitude. Her unwavering belief in positive thinking, spiritual practices, and visualization was evident in her daily life, as seen in the words like “miracle” and “surrender” taped to her reading glasses.
Despite battling cancer for nearly three years, Colleen chose to keep her diagnosis private to shield her loved ones from worry. She approached this challenge with the same tenacity and mental strength she displayed on the curling ice, never wavering in her determination to overcome the odds.
Colleen’s legacy extended beyond her curling accolades to her coaching role, guiding her son Luke’s team to success with the same passion and dedication she exhibited throughout her career. Her impact on the curling world and her community was profound, earning her numerous titles and accolades, including inductions into the Canadian Curling Hall of Fame and the Order of Canada.
Colleen’s vibrant personality and zest for life shone through in her broadcasting career, where she covered nine Olympics for CBC, delighting audiences with her unique perspective and infectious energy. Her ability to connect with people on a personal level and inspire them to believe in themselves was a testament to her extraordinary spirit.
In her final moments, Colleen’s message of hope and positivity resonates, encapsulating her essence of always anticipating something wonderful on the horizon. Her legacy as a champion, mentor, and friend will continue to inspire generations to come, embodying the true spirit of resilience and optimism.