Can you name a nurse leader (who isn’t Florence Nightingale)? In ‘The Wisdom of Nurses: Stories of Grit from the Front Lines' the book’s nurse-authors, Amie Archibald Varley and Sara Fung, highlight nursing leaders whose invaluable contributions to healthcare are often overlooked. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, the book celebrates the profound impact of nurses on individuals, families, and communities, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing nursing wisdom in healthcare settings. The book also appreciates that expertise in nursing goes beyond technical proficiency to the ability to navigate complex healthcare situations with compassion and professionalism.
Written for aspiring and practicing nurses, and for the public, nursing expertise is explained as multifaceted work, encompassing clinical skills, critical thinking, empathy, communication, and holistic care. Archibald-Varley and Fung’s book is a refreshing, engaging read, ultimately fostering a sense of community within the nursing profession by speaking out about the collective wisdom and expertise of nurses. It is so much more than just ‘the lady with the lamp’.
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
