By day, Joni Armstrong serves as an occupational and certified hand therapist for Sanford Health in Bemidji. It’s where she’s worked for more than 20 years — helping patients of all ages develop and recover the skills they need for daily living and working.
By night, in her home studio, she works as a creative — writing and illustrating children’s books about life and the outdoors in northern Minnesota.
And in between, she’s making a difference for local pediatric patients by blending her passions in a unique and meaningful way. Since 2012, Joni has donated the proceeds from her charming children’s books to the Sanford Health Foundation to support pediatric therapy initiatives in Bemidji.
“It’s a way to combine two things I love,” Joni said. “I’ve always loved writing, drawing and painting. And children’s health is a passion of mine. I believe that if we can help kids when they’re young, we can improve the future we all share.”
Thoughtfully written and beautifully illustrated, each of Armstrong’s books are designed to spark curiosity among young readers, while also inspiring a lifelong love of reading. They’re published by Armstrong’s publishing company, TGTG Books.
“TGTG stands for ‘to God the glory.’ That’s really what everything is about for me,” Joni said. “My goal is that through all this, God will be given glory. He’s the giver of all gifts, so if we can use those gifts to help others, and to help others know him, that’s my primary purpose.”
Her first book, “Snowflake the Tiniest Angel,” is based on a poem by Peter Marino that explores “how God gave us Santa,” Joni said.
Her next book, “Duck Therapy,” follows Certainly Precious (nicknamed CP, for short), a duckling who’s born with health challenges and needs therapy to improve his mobility.
“
It seemed logical to write about something related to children’s therapy — since the book was going to benefit children’s therapy.
“Duck Therapy” also includes a series of repetitive phrases which are helpful for kids who are learning to read. “I think reading is so important for kids,” Joni said. “If my books can play a small part in helping kids build and develop reading skills, I think that would be wonderful.”
Her latest book, “Aunt Sophie’s Place,” is a collection of memories from time spent with her great aunt Sophie at her cabin on a peninsula in northern Minnesota.
“It’s everything we know and love about lake life,” Joni said. “From eagles’ nests and crayfish at night to walks in the morning, snapping turtles under the dock, lady slippers, hummingbirds and so much more. I wanted people to read the book and remember their experiences in northern Minnesota that they love.”
In donating proceeds from her books to the Sanford Health Foundation, Joni said she’s found a special kind of joy.
“
The reason I love working at Sanford is the chance to care for patients. And through giving, I’m able to offer care in another way while also experiencing the joy of giving. I believe we truly get our greatest joy when we’re doing something for someone else.
Emily Aitken-MaGaurn serves as a senior development officer for the Sanford Health Foundation in Bemidji. She said Joni embodies the true meaning of philanthropy.
“Philanthropy is all about helping others for the greater good. Through her work at Sanford Health, through her writing and art, and through her generosity, Joni is helping people of all ages right here in our community,” Aitken said. “Her kindness is making a difference in so many beautiful ways and we’re so grateful.”
Give for Children. Give for Good.
This year, hundreds of kids from across the Bemidji region will turn to Sanford Health for extra or unexpected care. With your support, we can help every child achieve the hopeful, healthy future they deserve. If you’re inspired by this story, please consider making a gift today. 100% of your gift will make a difference for local kids who need care close to home.