"Always Pack a Candle" is a gripping memoir by Dr. Marion McKinnon Crook, who takes readers on her journey through life as a nurse in British Columbia during the 1960s. Dr. Crook's storytelling is both vivid and heartfelt, making it a compelling read about the challenges and wild adventures of providing public health care in remote areas of British Columbia. Her writing provides a rare glimpse into the realities of nursing in isolated locations, and underscores the importance of nursing work in underserved areas. For nurses, and even the public, this book provides a very authentic portrayal of the profession's challenges and rewards, especially in the field of public health nursing. McKinnon Crook describes the patient, family, and community interactions that are the hallmark of her work and emphasizes the value of being prepared and learning to rely on ingenuity and resourcefulness when practicing in rural and remote contexts. Not only does this read offer a unique perspective on nursing work, but follows the author’s experiences as a young nurse experiencing life (and love!) in a small and closely connected community. McKinnon Crook paints an encompassing picture of rural living, the landscapes, and the resilient and culturally diverse people she encountered. Notable themes consisted of perseverance, compassion, and of course the vital role of community healthcare.
Overall, "Always Pack a Candle" offers a warm connection to the experiences and lessons that can help new nurses understand the realities and rewards of working in challenging environments. The key takeaways include the importance of adaptability, compassion, and community engagement in nursing practice.
After more than twenty years of national leadership in supporting nursing students and newly graduated nurses through professional role transition, Nursing the Future (NTF) is concluding its current operational chapter.
Since 2004, NTF has served as a vital bridge for new nurses, educators, and leaders navigating the vulnerable early months of practice. Through evidence-based programming, national partnerships, and a commitment to building a safe “cul-de-sac” for early-career nurses, NTF has supported thousands across Canada in cultivating connection, confidence, and professional identity.
We extend deep gratitude to our partners, including the Canadian Nurses Foundation, the Canadian Nurses Association, the Canadian Nursing Students Association, provincial ministries, healthcare institutions, and countless contributors whose belief in transition-to-practice support made this work possible.
While formal operations conclude, the scholarship, curriculum, intellectual property, and program infrastructure developed over two decades remain intact and available for strategic partnership and collaboration. For further dialogue on potential collaborations, please contact Dr. Duchscher directly: newgraduates@nursingthefuture.ca
We welcome conversations with ministries, health regions, academic institutions, and professional associations interested in advancing initiatives such as:
The mission of healthy and supported professional role transition remains urgent. The work continues, sustained through scholarship, partnership, and shared commitment to the future of Canadian nursing.
With enduring gratitude,
Dr. Judy Duchscher - Founder & CEO, Nursing the Future
Kathryn Corneau - Program Director, Nursing the Future
For our FULL letter of Gratitude CLICK HERE
