NOTE: I learned of this heartbreaking story through facebook and believe these two need to be remembered if not for those that knew her, but, more importantly, for those that will never get the chance.
Muskoka is grieving for a mother and her daughter.
Located a couple hours north of Toronto, where the senses are often stimulated by the sound of rustling leaves, Loon cries echo, smell of pine waft across the morning air, and the sunsets' warmth tickle the nose while captivating the eyes, the people are in shock upon learning the death of community service worker Carolyn Bray and her pre-teen daughter Jolene Helen Robinson. Both their bodies were found this past Sunday in Lake Rosseau.
Carolyn was a pillar to the community as the executive director of the Muskoka YWCA.
Unconfirmed reports said the sports-utility-vehicle they were driving crashed through the ice while Carolyn's husband followed behind on an all-terrain-vehicle. He was unable to save them.
Although I was not close friends with either I am left numb, empty and cold. The past few months though I was getting to know Carolyn better through facebook. It's my regret to not have done it sooner when I was there.
It was through my work at the newspaper in Muskoka (a region better know for its natural surrounding beauty than anything less than postcard perfect) I knew both of them, mainly from their accomplishments and achievements, which I documented regularly in words and in photos for the local newspapers.
Jolene always had a smile full of teeth and eyes that caught every ray of light. I nearly recorded all of her accomplishments as a proficient chess player, and an enthusiastic dancer that drew the attention of the audience.
Carolyn I saw at many of her events. Her efforts through the YWCA were evident in every young strong girl in the region through such programs as the Girlz Unplugged that focused on empowering young girls. My last interaction with her was at the YWCA Gala Women of Distinction a few months ago in Huntsville when I volunteered to photograph the event. Although I was more or less asked to go Carolyn made sure I was treated well and she never let me forget the value of my contribution for the event.
This consideration for others is what will always stand out for me and will be with me forever.
I can only hope that many others will continue with life in the same manner of community service and the verve for life both Carolyn and her daughter Jolene exhibited on a daily basis.
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