November 2005

Local libraries, schools get early Christmas present

After Gilbert Brown, DC, a 1952 graduate of Palmer College, passed away earlier this year, Mrs. Patricia Brown ‑‑ his wife of almost 60 years ‑‑ came up with a poignant way to celebrate his love of chiropractic. In his memory, she purchased an entire case of the illustrated children's book, "The Chiropractor Who Saved Christmas."

The chiropractic‑loving woman from Ponte Vedra Beach noted on her faxed order: "What a wonderful way to sell chiropractic! ... I will then present copies to our local libraries as well as elementary schools."

Timothy Feuling, who publishes the book written by Dianne Miller and illustrated by Ron Miller, said that Mrs. Brown's gesture will probably help introduce thousands of children, and their parents, to the benefits of chiropractic. "I wouldn't doubt that many of those children will someday receive care from a chiropractor, and more than one might end up becoming DCs themselves, all thanks to this wonderful and generous action," he stated.

The book tells the story of three reindeer who get sick just hours before Santa is about to start his Christmas Eve deliveries.

"Dancer stopped dancing, Dasher stopped dashing, and Prancer stopped prancing," the story explains.

Given this dilemma, Santa does the wisest thing possible ‑‑ he called a doctor of chiropractic to visit the North Pole and adjust to the sick reindeer. While "Dr. May" is there, she gives adjustments to Santa and all the elves as well.

"Our health comes from inside," the doctor tells Santa. "I just help with alignment so your sickness can't hide. You create your own health, you create how you feel. I help open the channels, so your body can heal."

When the book had its debut last year, more than 10,000 copies were sold in less than 45 days, spurring Barnes & Noble to request that the book be made available in its stores. "We received calls from doctors all over the world singing the praises of this book. Most of them told us that their patients thought it was one of the best books they had ever read to their kids."

A number of chiropractic colleges have already asked to carry the book in their bookstores and Feuling suggested that doctors place their orders early in case the book sells out again.

Single copies are available for $18.95, shipping and handling included. When purchased in quantity, the price is reduced to $12.95 each for 6‑20 books; $8.95 each for 21‑30 books, and $5.50 each for 31‑81 books. Doctors who purchase the book by the case (82 books per case) qualify for the special bulk price of just $3.30 per book ($270.60 per case, shipping and handling included).

"I hope other doctors follow Mrs. Brown's inspiring example and buy enough books to distribute to libraries, schools, and other public outlets," Feuling commented. "Teaching young people about health and chiropractic will ensure the future success of our profession, and create healthier, happier lives for our children."

To order "The Chiropractor Who Saved Christmas" by credit card, call 800‑505‑5460. Credit card orders may also be faxed to 858‑350‑3747, or send your check ‑‑ made payable to The Chiropractic Journal ‑‑ to: The Chiropractic Journal, 4479 Philbrook Square, San Diego, CA 92130. See the ad in this issue of the Journal for more details.