As Perry Wellness Center peers and staff continue to reflect on the life of Rosalynn Carter, PWC founder and director Stuart Perry rereads a letter sent to him by Mrs. Carter during the Christmas season seven years ago. We previously mentioned that Stuart and Mrs. Carter worked closely on my projects and activities to decrease stigma and increase awareness about mental illness. On December 17, 2016, Mrs. Carter not only sent her regards of the season to her fellow advocate, but thanked him for his contributions to the community.

We can only imagine how many times Stuart has re-read this gracious message. Although the letter is light-damaged, we’re sure he knows each word by heart:

"Dear Stuart: Christmas came early! With all the good things you sent, too numerous to begin to name. I am overwhelmed by your kindness and generosity. You are a wonderful person who has touched the lives of so many people and made them better, including me. You are truly a living example of the Christian Spirit. If more people lived lives like you are living, the world would be a better place.

With admiration and much.love, Rosalynn Carter”