Years ago, I saw a film called Pay It Forward where the central character is a young boy who attempts to make the world a better place after his teacher gave him that very opportunity. It’s a great movie. You should check it out.
The “Pay It Forward” philosophy stuck with me, and I do try to live by that ethos.
When The Big Green Gummi Bear was reaching the end of his terminal cancer journey, our local hospice, Ardgowan Hospice, were absolutely wonderful. These angels in disguise wrapped their arms round the whole family and took such great care of us all. Their dedicated and caring team allowed The Big Green Gummi Bear to pass peacefully from this world.
I will never be able to totally repay that kindness, but I felt I had to do something.
In 2023, Ardgowan Hospice opened a bookshop selling largely pre-loved books. Shortly before Christmas 2024, a local author visited the shop to do a charity book signing, with the proceeds split between the hospice and another charity.
A lightbulb lit above my head.
I could do that for Valentine’s Day!
Mid-January I approached Ardgowan Hospice with my suggestion, and they readily agreed to it. A date was set, and the plan was put in motion.
As the date approached, my anxiety levels were through the roof. I’d never done a book signing before!
Oh this event was dragging me SO far out of my comfort zone!
A wee voice kept reminding me, “It’s for a good cause. You’ll be fine,”
Everything was arranged for the afternoon of Saturday 15th February.
I had bought in a supply of my books (KDP authors get to purchase their books for cost from Amazon). I also had some small, signed photos of the books to give away as bookmarks. I even got some business cards printed. Being the stationery geek that I am, I even treated myself to a new set of Sharpie markers for the occasion.
I was as organised as I was going to be!
On the day of the event, I was a nervous wreck. In an effort to keep myself calm, I channelled some Reiki healing for myself then slipped some calming/grounding crystals into my bra for good measure.
When I arrived at The Wee Bookshop, I was made to feel so welcome by the volunteers that my initial nerves began to subside …that is until one of the volunteers said that it had been really quiet all morning.
The wee anxious voice in my head was now screaming, “What if no one comes? What if no one buys any books?”
I needn’t have worried.
Within a few minutes of setting out my wares, I had made my first two sales.
I have to admit, sitting autographing the books for people felt surreal. I know I’m an author and had every right to be there. I am incredibly proud of my book babies but that wee voice in my head was whispering, “Imposter” every time I signed a book for someone. I ignored it!
The afternoon flew by. There was a bit of excitement outside the shop involving falling roof slates and two fire engines but that’s another story for another day. Thankfully no one was injured by the falling slates.
As I packed up, I tallied up. I had sold 14 books during the afternoon and also accepted a few cash donations meaning that I had £100 to donate to Ardgowan Hospice.
A drop in the ocean for the debt of gratitude that my family owes them, but every penny counts.
I’d like to tank the volunteers from The Wee Bookshop for making me feel so welcome and also to Kat for organising the event.
I’d also like to thank everyone who bought a book and/or made a donation.
Oh and after an entire afternoon in a bookshop, how many books do you think I bought?…
None! Ok I did come home and download East of Eden after chatting to one of the customers about it.
If you’d like to learn more about Ardgowan Hospice or make a donation to such a worthwhile cause, here’s the link to their website-
Coral McCallum 