“My job is to make people feel comfortable,” says Colleen Widlak.
For 18 years, Colleen has made Jack’s Place at Vail Health Shaw Cancer Center more than just a building—she’s made it a home. As the founding house manager of this cancer-caring house in Edwards, Colorado, Colleen has embodied the spirit of care and community that makes Jack’s Place unique.
The impact of Colleen’s love and dedication can be seen throughout Jack’s Place—thriving plants welcome visitors to the sunroom, seasonal decorations brighten the garden fountain, and most importantly, she touches lives by creating a home away from home for cancer patients and their caregivers.
As she prepares to retire in April and return to Michigan to be closer to family, Colleen leaves a legacy of compassion that has touched many lives.
Creating Comfort for Patients
“My job is to make people feel comfortable,” says Colleen, who moved from Detroit in 2006 and joined Jack’s Place in 2007. Named after Dr. Jack Eck, one of Vail’s first doctors and a healthcare pioneer, Jack’s Place offers a haven for cancer patients and their caregivers traveling to Shaw Cancer Center for treatment. With a pay-what-you-can philosophy, made possible through generous donations, the facility offers day and overnight lodging, eliminating the burden of long commutes during treatment.
“Patients arrive here courageous and appreciate what we offer—the comforts of home, cooking their meals, not having to drive back and forth in bad weather.”
The kitchen at Jack’s Place holds a special place in Colleen’s heart. It serves as what she calls “The Unofficial Cancer Support Group meeting place.” Patients naturally gather there to share experiences, form connections, and even plan impromptu dinner parties. This spirit of community extends outdoors, too. Some patients gather around the fountain for singalongs, bringing their instruments to play.
A Commitment to Giving
Colleen has also been a longtime benefactor to Vail Health Foundation, making monthly contributions through payroll deductions. “We need to take care of each other. Isn’t that why we’re here?” she reflects. “Giving to Vail Health’s Employee Support Fund is one way to care for others even if you don’t know them.”
Her appreciation for Vail Health and its mission runs deep. “The Vail Valley is a very giving community because people gave to build Jack’s Place for people who don’t even live here,” she explains. “Patients drive from Steamboat, Buena Vista, Silverthorne, or Rifle, and they breathe a sigh of relief when they get here.”
As she prepares for her next chapter, Colleen reflects, “Being here has been a blessing–one of the best chapters of my life.”
We need to take care of each other. Isn’t that why we’re here?”
Colleen Widlak