This is the story of Henrietta Lacks, a black American woman whose cells radically changed medicine. In 1951, Henrietta’s cervical cells were taken without her knowledge or consent, and then discovered as the world’s first immortal human cell line, called ‘HeLa’. Henrietta’s cells are regarded as a scientific breakthrough which has changed the face of medicine, and HeLa are still very much in use today. The story of The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot exposes the impact of this sampling and consequent discovery on Henrietta’s family-impoverished black Americans despite HeLa cells’ profit to the biomedical industry-and as well discusses the ethical issues surrounding cell research and the scientific advancements made possible by HeLa. While this is a relevant understanding for medical history, Henrietta’s story has important implications for nursing, including the ethics of healthcare research, the importance of patient education, and the critical nature of cultural sensitivity in our work.
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
