Permanent rubber duckies.That was my fear for the 1000 copies of Caring Lessons when, upon their arrival, my husband and I stored them in our bathrooms.

Alas, the duckies were not to be.

With gratitude to many of you—family, friends, and new friends, I can give an “annual report” that, together, we have sold over 500 books. Average sales of books by unknowns like me are under 200. One firm even states that 500 sales makes a best seller. So thanks to all of you, we have a best seller here!

All proceeds have been donated to the Lois and Marv Roelofs Freshman Nursing Scholarship fund at Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights, IL. Each year, four incoming freshman receive $500 from this fund.

The scholarship fund, with additional donations, is getting close to $20,000.00, the amount needed for endowment. Of course, since we’re almost there, Marv has decided we should aim to double that. Stay tuned!

And big news: thanks to the dedicated assistance of one of my former nursing students, Amy Nagelkirk, we know of one BSN program that is using Caring Lessons as a textbook this fall, and one large hospital network that is promoting it among their staff nurses right now.

Most importantly, we are getting the message out about the professionalism of nursing and the importance of reducing the stigma of those living with mental illness.

I will appreciate your continued support! Contact me for readings, speaking engagements, and most anything but my cooking, at caringlessons@aol.com