Key facts
- Name
- Carol Jones
- Role
- Regular at Barrow AFC Foundation's cancer prehab and rehabilitation programme
- Campaign
- Featured in EFL's Scan to Smile campaign in January
- Funeral date
- Wednesday, August 12, at 12pm
- Funeral location
- Saunders and Chorley, Abbey Mount Furness Chapel, Abbey Road
- Donations
- To Cancer Prehab & Rehab support at Barrow AFC Foundation
Background
Carol Jones was a regular participant in Barrow AFC Foundation's cancer prehab and rehabilitation programme, which supports people living with cancer through exercise and social connection. She was described by the foundation as a 'dedicated Bluebird' who inspired those around her.
In January, Carol's journey was chosen by the English Football League (EFL) as part of its nationwide Scan to Smile campaign. By sharing her story, she encouraged others to seek support and highlighted the role of football club charities in providing care.
Tribute and funeral details
In a tribute, a foundation spokesman said: 'Carol brought warmth, courage, and encouragement to everyone she met. She embraced every rehab session with determination, cheer, and was always ready with a smile and a kind word for others.'
The foundation said it is 'deeply grateful' for the time shared with Carol. The spokesman added: 'She will be greatly missed by so many at Holker Street and our thoughts and prayers are with John, Hadley, and Sadie, and all her family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.'
Carol's funeral will be held at Saunders and Chorley in Abbey Mount Furness Chapel, Abbey Road, on Wednesday, August 12, at 12pm. Carol requested no flowers; any donations will go to the Cancer Prehab & Rehab support at Barrow AFC Foundation.
Impact on the community
Carol's participation in the programme and her public sharing of her experience helped others facing similar challenges. In January, she told The Mail: 'I started to meet people that were on the same journey as I was, and that gives you the ability, out of a clinical setting, to share how hard life can be sometimes, but also to laugh at each other's mistakes and mishaps.'
Her story was used by the EFL to promote the Scan to Smile campaign, which aims to encourage early cancer detection and support. The foundation's tribute underscores the personal connections formed through its programmes and the loss felt by staff and fellow participants.
Future outlook
Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.
The foundation's tribute suggests Carol's legacy may continue to inspire others. If her story encourages more people to join similar programmes or seek early screening, the impact of her courage could extend beyond her immediate circle.
Donations made in her memory will support the Cancer Prehab & Rehab programme at Barrow AFC Foundation. If sufficient funds are raised, the programme may be able to expand its services or reach more individuals living with cancer.
The foundation has not announced any specific future initiatives. However, the continued operation of such programmes could depend on ongoing community support and participation, which Carol's story may help sustain.
Source: nwemail.co.uk
