Barbara Jones Reclaims Her Strength and Redefines Resilience: Faces Tri-Cities Co-Author Series

Geneviève Kyle-Lefebvre & Cathy Cena Today on Faces: Tri-Cities co-authored stories, Cathy Cena and Genevieve Kyle-Lefebvre had the pleasure of sitting down with Barbara Jones, a woman whose quiet determination and radiant resilience have inspired many across the Tri-Cities. Barbara’s chapter in the Faces book speaks to more than survival. It is a testament to self-discovery, community support, and the transformative power of reclaiming your own narrative. Barbara joined the project during one of the hardest years of her life. When invited, she didn’t hesitate. “I’ve always wanted to tell my story,” she said. “And I felt this was the best way to do it, surrounded by women who support and understand.

” Her decision was rooted in the desire to reach others who may be struggling and to show them that hope remains within reach. Barbara’s journey includes the loss of a spouse, the decline and passing of her mother, a cancer diagnosis, and a deep reckoning with her own health. At a low point, she found her way into a workout group that asked members to name their personal mantra. Her answer became her quote for the book: “I am my passion.” That declaration marked a turning point. “I realized I’d spent my life caring for everyone else. It was time to care for me,” she said. Even as she battled exhaustion during cancer treatment, Barbara showed up. She continued to attend events, share space with her community, and uplift those around her.

“Sometimes you smile through the hard times,” she explained. “You don’t quit. You don’t give up. There is a light at the end of the tunnel.” Her photo, captured shortly after her last treatment, radiates both vulnerability and grace. “It took everything out of me to come to that event,” she admitted. “But I needed to be there. I wanted to show up.” And she did, with style and heart. Barbara hopes her story encourages others to be part of something bigger. Whether it’s volunteering, speaking out, or simply picking up the phone, she believes in connection and the richness of community. “We’re lucky here,” she said. “We have people around us who care. That’s wealth.

” A proud member of Canadian Women in Business and Belly Women, Barbara is eager to give back even more once she regains her strength. “I have a lot to give,” she said. “And with my kids grown and my grandkids far away, it’s time.” To Barbara, leadership begins with passion. “If you care about something, let people know. Get involved.” Her message is clear: healing isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. It’s about choosing to rise, again and again. Barbara JonesBarbara Jones is not just a co-author. She is a reminder that no matter where you are in life, your story still matters, and there is always a way forward. All you need is courage, and perhaps, a few good women by your side.