When the overnight bus finally rolled into northern Manitoba, the early morning sun shone without warmth, casting a pale glow over endless, untouched snow. For Pat, a retired health‑sector professional and grandmother of six, this frigid landscape was not just a destination, it was the bold fulfillment of a decision made weeks earlier, sparked by nothing more than a persistent Facebook ad.

A Spark from the Screen

The Manitoba Winter Games first appeared on her feed as a promotional post. Then it appeared again. And again.

“As we got closer, the information kept coming, so I started to check it out,” Pat recalls.

Newly settled in Winnipeg, she saw the Games as an opportunity to contribute, stay active, and explore a part of Canada she had always been drawn to—the North.

With a career spent coordinating federal health programs focused on substance use and community wellness, she was no stranger to service. But this trip was personal. Inspired by her pilot father, she describes her adventurous spirit with a smile: “I call myself raised by gypsies.”

A Warm Welcome to the Cold

Pat boarded the 10 p.m. bus from Winnipeg and arrived in Thompson at dawn. The taxi driver who picked her up not only welcomed her but gave her a quick tour of the town’s landmarks. Soon she was navigating abbreviations like TRCC, RDPC, and UCN, appreciating Thompson’s walkable design, and meeting people who made her feel instantly at home.

“People here are wonderful—very helpful,” she says.

Where Spirit Meets Sport

Throughout the week‑long Games, Pat will volunteer in multiple roles: food services on the first and last days, office duties in the mornings, and evening shifts supporting accreditation. Surrounded by energetic athletes and committed volunteers, she found joy in every interaction. “I enjoy seeing the girls, hearing their stories, and meeting volunteers from all different backgrounds.”

A New Sense of Home

After living in both Alberta and Manitoba, Pat found herself unexpectedly connected to Thompson. Conversations with fellow volunteers have already sparked ideas about future events—including the possibility of helping during the upcoming Olympic season.

As an older woman traveling alone, she hopes her experience encourages others to step beyond the familiar—safely, boldly, and with an open heart.

Looking ahead, Pat dreams of settling somewhere she can remain active, join intergenerational programs, and continue making a difference. For her, impact is measured simply: if even one person feels better because of her, the journey has been worth it.