Recap of the 13th Annual Dotty Nicholas Sickle Cell Scholarship Award June 13th 2026.
On June 13, the Dotty Nicholas Sickle Cell Scholarship Fund Association hosted one of its most impactful scholarship award events at Global Kingdom Ministries, located at 1250 Markham Road in Scarborough.
The event was hosted by Lesley Waldon, a community cultural ambassador and sister of the renowned Nicole Waldron, President of Victory Speaks.
Celebrating the Scholarship Recipients
Ten outstanding young adults living with sickle cell disorder were honoured with scholarships. They will be beginning or continuing their post-secondary education at universities or colleges in Ontario and other provinces.
Opening Remarks and Welcome
The evening began with inspiring opening remarks and a warm welcome from Dr. Muhammad Hamid, a Scarborough Health Network pediatrician and member of the DNSCSFA Medical Advisory Board. Dr. Hamid spoke about the impact of sickle cell disease on young adults and recognized the leadership of President Dotty Nicholas, whose years of dedication have helped transform the lives of many people affected by the disease.
The grand entrance of the awardees drew cheers and a standing ovation from attendees as the recipients entered with grace and humility. Self-taught saxophonist John Anderson performed skillfully as the awardees took their seats together.
Government and Community Support
Officials from the Government of Canada attended, along with leaders from the education and church communities. The Honourable Jennifer McKelvie spoke highly of the scholarship initiative and received a congratulatory scroll in recognition of her many years of service to the sickle cell program at The Hospital for Sick Children and to the DNSCSFA.
The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Public Safety of Canada and Member of Parliament for Scarborough—Rouge Park, continued his annual tradition of presenting each of the ten recipients with congratulatory scrolls. This presentation remains one of the evening’s greatest highlights and a moment the audience looks forward to each year. MP Anandasangaree has been a strong supporter of the Dotty Nicholas sickle cell initiative for more than 10 years.
The Honourable Michael Coteau, Member of Parliament for Scarborough—Woburn, was also in attendance. A longtime supporter of sickle cell disease programs, he tabled Bill S-201 in the House of Commons for the National Sickle Cell Framework. Mr. Coteau graciously presented congratulatory scrolls to the DNSCSFA Board of Directors in recognition of their service and dedication to the organization.
Music and Keynote Address
The program included musical presentations by gospel songbirds Sandy Lindo and Eldora Lewis.
A highlight of the evening was the keynote address delivered by Mr. McCair Tulloch, a Toronto pastor, a budding lawyer, and renowned speaker. Speaking with confidence and poise, he encouraged the awardees with powerful reminders of resilience, perseverance, and possibility, including the messages “there is always more” and “don’t quit.” His words resonated deeply with the awardees and the wider audience, especially considering the pain and complications faced by those living with sickle cell disease.
Closing Reception
The evening concluded with a reception catered by The Jerk House and music by DJ Inspiration. Everyone was served by the dedicated board of directors and volunteers.
