Forest Hill native brings joy to lives of other cancer survivors
Most of Diana Jones’ life has been rooted in faith.
Her experience with cancer, however, tested that belief. As a three-time cancer survivor, she’s endured a litany of challenges, from a ministroke in 2019 that first signaled her cancer to losing her job as a case manager in the insurance industry.
“I guess — I won’t say ‘I guess’ — I know my faith kept me through,” Jones said.
One moment that truly shook that faith was when her heart stopped.
As she spent a month in the hospital as part of her cancer surgery, she coded — twice.
“I was afraid at first. I was afraid that I wouldn’t see my grandchildren become teenagers or adults,” she said. “I was afraid that my husband would have to make decisions without me. I was afraid that I just wouldn’t see tomorrow.”
Welcome to 52 Faces
52 Faces of Community is a Fort Worth Report weekly series spotlighting local unsung heroes. It is sponsored by Central Market, H-E-B and JPS Health Network.
At the end of the year, these rarely recognized heroes will gather for a luncheon where the Report will announce one honoree to represent Tarrant County at the Jefferson Awards in Washington, D.C.
Nevertheless, the Forest Hill native survived her grueling experience. And now she brings joy and appreciation to the lives of other cancer patients.
Jones started the Colorful World of Cancer three years ago. The annual event brings resources to south Fort Worth community members struggling with the daily challenges of cancer. It’s also a space to bring joy to survivors and family members who’ve lost loved ones to cancer, Jones said.
“There’s a need to celebrate those that have gained their wings and those that are still fighting, like myself,” Jones said.
Her relentless dedication to the most vulnerable in south Fort Worth earned her the recognition of 52 Faces of Community, Fort Worth Report’s weekly series on unsung heroes making a difference in Tarrant County.
This year’s Colorful World of Cancer saw dozens of attendees flock to the Everman Civic Center on Sept. 20. Alongside local catering and dancing, Jones presented certificates to those afflicted by cancer, whether directly or through a family member.
It isn’t uncommon for cancer survivors to serve others going through similar journeys. However, Jones’ efforts are unique because she “celebrat(es) the survivorship” of everyone whose lives are affected by cancer, said Devyn Teague, grants manager at Cancer Care Services.
“She would go up to every single person and introduce herself, make sure that that person had everything they needed, make sure that they felt at home,” Teague said. “And that was something truly special to see.”
Know an unsung hero in Tarrant County?
Tell us about them by filling out the form below.
Cancer Care Services is one of the groups working with Jones to provide resources and support to the event attendees. The Fort Worth-based nonprofit helped Jones with emotional and financial support during her own cancer treatment, just as they do with over 3,000 people annually.
Teague said just being a part of Jones’ effort to serve others is a privilege.
“To be the person that organizes and connects everyone together takes immense strength,” Teague said of Jones.
“Being able to touch all of these individuals who have been impacted by cancer in one event in such a caring and compassionate way is something truly unique in our community.”
Devyn Teague, grants manager at Cancer Care Services
Looking forward, Jones wants the Colorful World of Cancer to be more than just a yearly banquet. She’s in the process of making the organization a nonprofit.
The resources she gives out now are provided to her by other groups. Jones hopes to create her own pamphlets and magazines relating to cancer services within Tarrant County.
Jones envisions Colorful World of Cancer to become a “one-stop shop” for those with cancer in south Fort Worth to visit and find joy. The need for information and happiness for survivors is too important for Jones to ever back down, she said.
“I can’t give up. I can’t stop,” she said.
Disclosure: Jodye Newton, Fort Worth Report’s director of corporate and community relations, is on the board for Cancer Care Services.
Ismael M. Belkoura is the health reporter for the Fort Worth Report. Contact him at ismael.belkoura@fortworthreport.org.
At the Fort Worth Report, news decisions are made independently of our board members and financial supporters. Read more about our editorial independence policy here.