EMPOWERING OUR COMMUNITY THROUGH KNOWLEDGE

Health is Wealth: I Care, You Care, We Care

On February 21, the Dotty Nicholas Sickle Cell Scholarship Fund Association (DNSCSFA), in collaboration with Global Kingdom Ministries, hosted its third annual Health and Wellness Day to raise awareness about Sickle Cell Disease and other health conditions that disproportionately affect the Black community.

At DNSCSFA, we use Black History Month as an opportunity to highlight the urgent need for increased awareness, education, and improved care for individuals living with Sickle Cell Disease. Through collaboration and community engagement, this event brings together healthcare professionals, advocates, and community members to share valuable knowledge and resources.

Attendees participated in a series of informative presentations addressing Sickle Cell Disease and other health issues impacting the Black population. These sessions created meaningful opportunities for learning and encouraged lifestyle changes that support improved health and wellness.

Dr. Farzana from the University Health Network Hematology Program delivered a presentation on Sickle Cell Disease and its complications, with special emphasis on iron overload resulting from repeated blood transfusions.

Additional topics included:

  • Mental Health, with a focus on suicide prevention and depression, presented by a Mental Health Case Worker from the Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities
  • Dementia, presented by Dr. Amer Burhan
  • Prostate Cancer, presented by representatives from the Walnut Foundation
  • Menopause, presented by Dr. Bulaong
  • A compelling video testimonial featuring a successful bone marrow transplant from one of our own Sickle Cell warriors — a powerful and inspiring story of hope.

Students and instructors from Bryan College also participated by offering massage therapy services throughout the day to more than 60 attendees, contributing to the overall wellness experience.

This event also served as a meaningful follow-up to the Town Hall discussion on Bill S-201: National Framework on Sickle Cell Disease Act, which was passed in the Senate on November 18, 2025. We extend our congratulations to the Sickle Cell Disease Association of Canada for this important milestone.

Awareness and collaboration remain essential. Through continued partnership and education, we remain committed to empowering and supporting our community.