Annual Report

2018/19 This document provides a summary of the activities of The Walnut Foundation for the Fiscal Year September 2018 August 2019 and projects some of the focus of the organization for the next Fiscal Year.

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Table of Contents 1.0 Introduction and Background ........................................... 2

1.1 Remembering Dr. Winston Isaac ............................... 3

2.0 The Board Of Directors ..................................................... 6

3.0 Board of Directors Report ................................................. 7

3.1 Monthly Meetings

3.2 Presentations at Monthly Meetings 2018/2019

3.3 Collaboration/ Presentations/ Representations

3.4 One-On-One Presentations

3.5 Major Events of 2018/2019

4.0 Walkathon Report .......................................................... 11

5.0 AC3 Prostate Cancer Conference Report ......................... 14

6.0 Financial Report .............................................................. 18

7.0 Membership Report ....................................................... 21

8.0 Major Events of 2019/2020 ............................................. 25

9.0 Application for Research Grant on Prostate Cancer in Black

Men ..................................................................................... 26

10.0 Moving Forward in 2020 and Beyond ............................ 28

11.0 Our Supporters ............................................................. 29

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Passion • Compassion • Action

Men’s Health Support

The Walnut Foundation

93 Seclusion Crescent, Brampton Ontario CANADA L6R 1L1

Telephone: 905 799 2759; Fax 905 799 8345

www.thewalnutfoundation.com

1.0 Introduction and Background:

The Walnut Foundation was founded in 2007, incorporated in 2010 and obtained its charitable organizational status in 2012. The chief aim of the organization is to provide a safe environment in which men can seek out healthcare information and support in an effort to be responsible for their own health and well-being. The Men’s Health Interest Group and the Prostate Cancer Support Group are the vehicles through which much of our work is done in health promotion and health awareness. The organization focuses on Men’s Health and provides education and information on health and related issues at monthly meetings. We also accept invitations from community and other groups to present to them or lead discussions on subjects such as prostate cancer awareness and men taking responsibility for their health. As well, we provide guidance to men and their families, partners, caregivers, and supporters with concerns about a prostate cancer diagnosis or related life style and quality of life issues. The affairs of the organization are managed by the Board of Directors, ably assisted by an Advisor who also take leadership roles on special projects. We are very excited to note that we have experienced over twelve years of existence, and continue to serve men and their families in the Caribbean community with the provision of health care information and assistance that help them to better understand and navigate their way through the healthcare system. The Board of Directors The Walnut Foundation

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1.1 Remembering Dr. Winston Isaac 1941-2019

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On February 15, 2019 Co-Founder, President and CEO of the Walnut Foundation –Dr. Winston Isaac, passed away after a very brief illness. The organization is greatly indebted to have benefitted immensely from both his vision and leadership skills, which in turn, has brought it to its current state. May his Legacy of sincere commitment and service enable us to grow in ways that make it chief among premier groups that work to foster greater awareness among men in terms of their overall health. Dr. Isaac was a tireless and selfless worker who volunteered his service wherever he perceived

a need. This ranged from professionally related to community focus organizations. As

examples, in 2010 he was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Central West Local Health

Integrated Network in Brampton and served for two terms until January 2015. He also served

as a director on the Council for the College of Occupational Therapist of Ontario. He was also a

reviewer for accrediting health administration programs across North America for the

Association of University Programs in Health Administration. Among other accolades, he was

awarded the Alumnus of Distinction Awards by The Michener Institute in 2007. In 2013, he

received the St. Kitts & Nevis Independence Anniversary Award -in the category of

Medicine/Health Awareness, for his exemplary leadership, selfless acts of time and dedication,

and his effort to bring health awareness to others in his community.

As a Prostate Cancer Survivor himself, Dr. Isaac was passionate about sharing his experiences so

that others would be aware of the value of constant monitoring, early diagnosis and the

benefits of early treatment. He was convinced that if others understood the threat of prostate

cancer to the Black Community particularly, that they would be far less silence than is currently

the case. Moreover, he was convinced that Black men -having the right information, would be

more vigilant regarding their health.

Dr. Isaac frequently reminded and encouraged the men in the Prostate Cancer Support group

and the Men’s Health Interest Group to know their baseline health values so that they can

assume a level of responsibility for their own health.

Brief Reflections of close Associates:

I once knew a man with a warm heart and a gentle voice A humble man who was admired by many and respected by all who knew him He loved God and he was devoted to his family and his community. I once knew a man who was a powerful visionary and a transformational leader He was enthusiastic and collaborative in his leadership style And like Solomon in Biblical times, he was wise. I once knew a man who didn’t allow his very impressive resume to define him

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Rather, his trustworthy, humble and reliable character spoke volumes He was a man who was full of life and love for mankind I once knew a man who offered me friendship and respect He always had words to encourage and to uplift This wonderful man invited me, and many others, on his life’s journey I once knew a man who developed and courageously battled cancer His experience led to the conception and development of the Walnut Foundation Even during his illness, he was reaching out to support men and their families I once knew a man whose life was reflected in the outpouring of love from family and friends When death approached to steal him away, he kept his faith and his dignity He welcomed God’s outstretched hand which led him home I once knew Winston….. We once knew Winston.. And we loved him. By: Janace King-Watson

Winston Isaac was a remarkable man. He was a wise and caring educator and mentor, a strong and humble leader and trailblazer, and a selfless volunteer committed to the causes he believed in. I came to know Winston through his role as a Patient Advisor on a peer support program that I co-developed called the TrueNTH Peer Navigation Program. Funded by Prostate Cancer Canada and the Movember Foundation, this program matches prostate cancer patients and their families with a cancer survivor who is trained as a Peer Navigator to guide them through the cancer journey. Winston’s contribution to the TrueNTH Peer Navigation program has been invaluable. He was instrumental in guiding the design and successful implementation of the program at cancer centres in Toronto and Vancouver. He became a peer navigator himself, assisting other men through the prostate cancer experience. He also became a mentor to his fellow peer navigators, supporting them in their roles. As one fellow peer navigator said: "Winston set the standard for what it means to be a truly caring, giving human being". He is a role model for all of us. This program is now being scaled across Canada and is serving as a model for our international partners. By Dr. Jackie Bender Ph.D.

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2.0 The Board of Directors 2018/19:

• Winston Isaac, PhD (President) (Deceased)

• Simon Samuel (Vice President)

• Eugene Brazier (Treasurer)

• Charles Estridge (Secretary)

• Vernon Clarke (Director)

• Anthony Henry (Director)

• Winston Mapp (Director). Advisor: Ken Noel

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3.0 BOARD OF DIRECTORS REPORT Activities:

3.1 Monthly Meetings are normally held on the 2nd Sunday of each month from September to June, with adjustments for Thanksgiving (October) and Mother’s Day (May) if/when they fall on the second weekend. An Annual Symposium is generally held on the first Saturday in February, between 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This is public event is held in Brampton, as part of The Walnut Foundation’s educational and information contribution to its members and the community. 3.2 2018/2019 Presentations at Monthly Meetings: September 9/18 Open discussion on the direction of the organization; walkathon results; St. Kitts

Project update and general discussion on health.

October 14/18 Annual General Meeting. Review of the annual report; Open discussion on

Formation of a Women’s Group associated with The Walnut Foundation.

November 11/18 Dr. Winston Isaac: Medically Assisted Dying

December 9/18 Open Discussion; Annual Holiday Social – Christmas Pot Luck

January 13/19 Dr. Jackie Bender: The Peer Navigation Program at Princess Margaret Hospital

February Annual Symposium cancelled due to the sudden death of Dr. Winston Isaac

March 3/2019 Board Discussion with membership on The Organization Moving ‘forward.

Janace King-Watson on Expressing Grieg with the passing of Dr. Isaac

April 14/19 Dr. Wycliff Baird: Cannabis – Myths & Realities

May 5/19 Primrose Mharapara NP: hypertension & Chronic Kidney Disease

June 9/19 End of Year Feedback Discussions – Suggestions on Topics and Speakers for

2019/20. Social Interaction followed.

Meeting Attendance 2018/19:

Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb March Apr May June

38 36+9* 36 32+8* 35+7* Symposium

Cancelled

41+9* 34+16* 34+8* 34+8*

*indicates women in attendance for the joint meetings

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Nurse Practitioner Primrose Mharapara presenting on Hypertension & Chronic Kidney Disease

on Sunday May 5, 2019

3.3 Collaboration/Presentations/Representations:

The Walnut Foundation continued its mandate of:

• Collaboration with various Health related agencies;

• Presentations to various Corporate and community groups;

• Represent the Walnut Foundation at events which serves to advance the cause of the organization:

2018/2019 Collaborative Activities: 1. Sunday October 28th, 2018 at 3pm: Dr. Isaac and Ken Noel presented to the Trinidad &

Tobago 55+ Group in Scarborough, on Healthy Aging.

2. Monday, October 29, 2018 at 10:00 am: Dr. Isaac presented at TAIBU to their men’s Group on Prostate Health

3. 2018 Toronto Geriatrics Update Course (6th Annual) – November 2 &3 – Sinai Health System, led by Dr. Samir Sinha, at The Michener Institute –Dr Isaac attended:

4. Thursday November 8th, 2018 at 9am: Dr. Isaac and Charles Estridge attended Carter’s

Church and Charity Law Seminar: Mississauga

5. Wednesday, November 14, 2018 at 7:30 pm PCCN Toronto – Awareness Night – Dr. Sidney Radomski re “Erectile Dysfunction and Incontinence after Prostate Cancer Treatment”. Location: Toronto Botanical Garden, 777 Lawrence Ave E (Dr. Isaac, Anthony Henry and Vernon Clarke attended)

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6. Sunday, November 18, 2018 6:00 pm Dr. Isaac and Anthony Henry attended The International Men’s day 2018; Keynote: Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh. Location: Rose Garden Banquet Hall, 6628 Finch Ave. West, Etobicoke.

7. Wednesday November 21, 2018: Dr. Isaac Presented on Healthy Ageing by Newton

Young at a community centre at Ellesmere and Warden

8. Thursday November 22: Dr. Isaac Presented at The Woodbridge Group on Prostate Health Awareness, in support of their Movember Campaign

9. Saturday November 24th 9:30am Dr. Isaac and Ken Noel Presented at a Health and

Wellness Symposium held at Peel Pentecostal Tabernacle at 2005 Countryside Dr.,

Brampton. The Walnut Foundation’s presentation was on Healthy Aging.

10. Thursday March 21st, 2019. Simon Samuel and Anthony Henry attended the book

launch of Andre Rose’s “Buns of Steel”. The Walnut Foundation was recognized as the

charity of choice.

3.4 ONE-ON-ONE CONSULTATIONS:

Dr. Isaac, Ken Noel and Anthony Henry as the trained Peer Navigators have been contacted by a number of men who had concerns about their prostate health, information received, direction given and/or navigating the healthcare system. One of the common concerns from men is that they feel pushed into a specific treatment module at a very early stage. We have heard from individuals that The Walnut Foundation has been a reliable source of information and a positive support. It has made it easier for some of our guys to face the prostate treatment journey because of the support and knowing where to get the one-on-one support, when needed. Due to our commitment to privacy, we cannot reveal the names of the men we have supported. However, we appreciate the openness of the men who have approached us for help.

3.5 Major Events of 2017/2018:

The Walk-a-thon was held on June 1, 2019 at the Etobicoke Creek Trail in Brampton and started and ended at Loafers Lake Lane (Loafers Lake Recreation Centre). This event not only provided health benefits but also contributed to social interaction and support. All proceeds raised went to the Men’s Health Support Group activities and initiatives.

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Please see full report below by Anthony Henry. The Walnut Foundation Family BBQ took place on June 16, 2019 and was hosted by Winston and Vashti Mapp and their family. Sincere thanks to the Mapp’s for hosting The Walnut Foundation family. A great time was had by all. Saturday, July 6, 2019, The Caribbean Style Breakfast was held by Cultural Expressions at Bramalea Baptist Church. The Walnut Foundation was the recipient of part of the proceeds. We are grateful to Joyce Hurlock and her group for the financial support.

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4.0 Walkathon 2019 - Report

Fifth Annual “Walk The Path” Walkathon: In memory of Dr. Winston Isaac Ph.D.,

The Walk-a-thon was held on Saturday June 1, 2019 at the Etobicoke Creek Trail in Brampton,

Ontario and started and ended at Loafers Lake Recreation Centre. It was a highly anticipated

event as usual , tinged with excitement, anxiety and sadness as this was the first major event

the organization was hosting after the sudden death of our co-founder, mentor, teacher and

leader, Dr. Winston Isaac.

Dr. Isaac, in whose memory this year’s walk was made, would have been proud of the positive

energy created by the walk and the commitment made by all to keep the work of men’s health

education and support top of mind.

This year we had 130 registered participants in the walk which compares favourably to the 45

who participated in year one, five years ago, when this walk was a kernel of an idea. With

your support and enthusiasm, we surpassed the $15,000 raised in 2018 and handily beat our

set goal of $20,000 for 2019. At time of this report we had confirmed receipts of $34,562!!!

Dr. Isaac would have been extremely proud of us all.

More importantly, with this strong show of support, we are able to continue the work of

educating men about more effective management of a prostate cancer diagnosis, educate men

about how to better interact with the health care system to ensure better outcomes and

continue the collaboration with our community partners in delivering after care strategies once

men have been treated for prostate cancer. More specifically, the support you have provided,

will allow our team to continue providing a once monthly meeting for men to discuss health

issues and coping strategies, support for hospital visits/appointments with healthcare

providers, our annual February Symposium and our Annual Health conference which is coming

up on October 19, 2019. The ability to provide these services with a 100% volunteer cadre

would not be possible without the support from you our sponsors, volunteers, walk participants

and their families and for that we are deeply appreciative.

Our top individual fundraisers for “Walk The Path” Walk-a-thon 2019 were:

1. Earl Williams………………………………………………$1365

2. Maxine Henry…………………………………………….$1305

3. Janace King-Watson……………………………………$1225

4. Jerome Weir……………………………………………….$690

A very special congratulations to you and thanks for your continued passion and support for the

cause.

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To the runners up: We know many of you are going way out of your comfort zone to approach

your contacts, families and friends for support on our behalf and we appreciate that very much.

Do know that every dollar raised advances our efforts and we do appreciate your support.

Technology:

Continuing on our strategy to make better use of technology in 2018 we are happy to report

that with the help of our webmaster John Nethersole we were able to.

• Create better marketing pieces to promote the walkathon in paper and digital format.

• Create short promo videos to market the event on our website, by email and on social

media.

• Continue the collaboration with Canada Helps by utilizing their infrastructure to collect

and provide instant tax receipts online. We generated 30% of our total pledges or about

$10,630 by utilizing this platform. This is huge for a 100% volunteer driven non-profit

with no fulltime staff since it makes us more efficient in collecting donations and

providing tax receipts to our supporters in a timely manner.

A special thanks to all participants, volunteers/returning volunteers, families, executive

members and to the Planning Committee members who pulled this all together with precision

and under budget (Total event cost was $2118 or 6% of amount raised !!!).

Sponsors:

A very special thank you to our sponsors, without whom the event would not have been such a

success:

CARICOM Consular Corps Nutcracker Sweet

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Pine Valley Dental NEI Investments

CI Investments Mackenzie Investments

Macpri Made In Africa Art The Second Cup Coffee Company (Bramalea City

Centre)

Manulife Investments Lettitia Glasgow

Gerry Callender Mary Jackson & Ken Noel

NBA Basketball Player: Andrew Wiggins IA Clarington Investments

Looking forward to your continued support for “Walk The Path” Walkathon 2020: Date:

Saturday June 6, 2020.

Submitted by : “Walk The Path” Walk-a-thon 2019 Planning Committee.

Ken Noel: Co- Chair

Charles Estridge: Co-Chair

Anthony Henry

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5.0 AC3 Prostate Conference Report by Ken Noel

Overview and Purpose of the AC3 Prostate Cancer Survivors Conference:

This conference was hosted by The Fox Chase Cancer Center in association with Lincoln University, Jefferson University, Drexel University and The African Caribbean Cancer Consortium (AC3). The was the first Annual Conference for Prostate Cancer Survivors and the purpose of the conference was to build on the local, national and Global outreach efforts of the African-Caribbean Cancer Consortium. The conference theme was “Prostate Cancer Advocacy and Survivorship” and the focus was on increasing awareness within the black community, survivorship strategies and building a strong advocacy strategy. The conference was structured into two full days of sessions, with presentations from survivors,

the medical community and research academics focused on community engagement on men’s

health in the United States of America. During the conference, attendees were able to attend

the general sessions, workshops and a breakout session.

A concurrent exhibition was held onsite during the conference, allowing opportunities to visit

with booth personnel and investigate new services. Samples of exhibition are included for

Board preview

About the AC3 Organization

The African Caribbean Cancer Consortium (AC3) is a research network that promotes

collaborations to study viral, genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors for cancer risk and

outcomes in populations of African descent. Their goal is to advance the science of cancer

prevention and control in populations of African ancestry. Membership spans the African

diaspora in The USA, Caribbean, Canada and Africa.

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Day 1 Monday May 20.

1. Opening Plenary Session: Reaching & Engaging Men in their Communities

Speaker : Robin Cole, Founder of Robin Cole Foundation for Prostate Cancer. Mr. Cole is a

former NFL Pittsburg Steelers Linebacker who learned he had prostate cancer in 2004

during a routine examination. He had already lost his father, brother and an uncle to

Prostate Cancer.

2. Workshop 1 – Developing Community Health Campaigns

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Speaker: Mr. Clinton Burnside a Senior Outreach Coordinator with Howard University

Cancer Center, Howard University. Mr. Burnside runs a mobile prostate center located on a

truck. On weekends, he parks in a black community and invites men to be tested.

3. Workshop 2 – Exchanging Best Practices in Survivorship

Speakers:

Physician Perspective: Dr. Andrew Hollander, Radiation Oncologist

Survivor Perspective: Mr. A. J. Merriweather President of the Black Male Prostate

Coalition, Jacksonville Florida

Survivor Perspective: Rev. Blane J. Newberry, Associate Pastor of Exaltation Enon

Tabernacle Baptist Church (largest church n Philadelphia)

Spouse Perspective: Mrs. Debra Bowen, Spouse of prostate cancer survivor (her

husband is a physician)

Moderator: Dr. Curtiland Deville, Associate Professor , John Hopkins University School

of Medicine

4. Focus Groups Sessions– Understanding Influences that impact Health Behavious &

Decision-making

The conference was divided into two focus groups , men who are survivors and the

academics and spouses. My group consisted 14 men and was moderated by Col James

Williams.

Day 2 Tuesday May 21.

1. Workshop 111 How to develop an Advocacy Agenda

Speakers:

1. Brenda Bryant - How to Serve Community Educators – Educating the general public 2. Dr. Charnita Zeigler- Johnson & Dr. Camille Ragin – Working with academic partners 3. David Saul – Serving as Advocates to support new patients and other services 4. Col. James Williams Serve as Advocates ro Research Funds and Policy 5. Jermaine Bromwell -Solidifying an Advocacy Agenda

2. Closing Plenary Session: Addressing Prostate Cancer Survivorship in Black Men: A way

forward

.Speaker : Dr. Willie Underwood, Chief Urologist and Prostate Cancer Survivor,

Rosewell Park Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Buffalo, New York

What Sessions Did I Find Most Valuable?

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During the conference, I was able to attend all sessions. I was able to focus on topics that

directly relate to my position with the Walnut Foundation and find potential solutions for

ongoing projects. All Sessions were valuable in their own way however, the last presentation by

Dr. Willie Underwood was most impactful as he was both a Urologist and a prostate survivor.

Networking with the other attendees was most invaluable.

Overall Summary of Conference Experience

I was very pleased with my conference attendance and felt it was well worth the registration

fee and travel expenses. I gained valuable experience that can be implemented in our

organization. The networking experience was very beneficial and I was able to speak with

several survivors and other academics who provided useful information that can be relevant to

our organization.

Recommendations:

1. The Walnut Foundation join the AC3 Prostate Cancer Consortium. 2. We have Invited Dr Underwood to speak at our upcoming October Conference

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6.0 2018-2019 FINANCIAL REPORT: The Walnut Foundation

2018 2019

$ $ % Inc/(Dec)

Meeting Donations 1,425.00 1,680.00

Other Donations 4,025.50 3,495.00

In Memoriam - Dr Winston Isaac 1,005.00

Membership Subscription 170.00 525.00

Promo/Marketing 144.25

Walkathon 15,280.44 34,907.00

Conference - October 2019 670.00

Anniversay Gala 21,349.39

Miscellaneous 89.62

Total Revenue 42,394.58 42,371.62 -0.1%

Expenses

Bank Charges 283.82 115.78

Meeting Refreshments 555.09 730.78

Telephone 143.33

Printing -Annual Report, posters, etc 118.20 292.07

Envelopes, postage 125.41 174.40

Seminars, Conferences 2,135.63

Room Rental 734.50 345.08

In Memoriam 315.27 4,878.21

IT Services 5,183.89 3,827.88

Program Membership 154.81

IT Harwware and software 1,006.83

Donation to other Organizatons 500.00 1,360.00

Anniversay Gala 10,606.06

Symposium 735.48

Honorarium 300.00 213.49

Walkathon - Collection Fees 65.27 396.75

Walkathon 1,240.12 2,117.93

Miscellaneous 54.77 53.19

Total Expenses 20,817.88 17,946.16 -13.8%

Surplus/(Deficit) 21,576.70 24,425.46 13.2%

Income Statementfor Period September 01, 2018 - August 31, 2019

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The Walnut Foundation

Treasurer’s Report We are pleased to report that The Foundation is in a sound financial position. The Financial

Statements above bears this out. None of this would have been possible without the help and

encouragement of our members, friends, and Corporate donors. A huge thanks to all of our

donors who believe in us and support what we do.

The Total Revenue for 2018/2019 of $43,372 matches our 2017/2018 collection of $42,394.

This year’s Walkathon has seen its largest fundraising result since its inception with a total

raised of approximately $35,000, more than doubling last year’s total of $15,280 in

contributions. In the previous year, our 2018 total revenue was boosted by funds raised from

the gala, celebrating the Foundation’s tenth anniversary.

Total Expenses for 2019 decreased by 13.8% from $20,872 in 2018 to $17,946. The expenditure

($10,606), required to host the gala in 2018, was the main reason for the decrease.

The Foundation’s Fund Balance at the end of our operating year, September 2018 – August

2019, is $105,653. This increase was due to an income surplus of $24,425, a 13.2% increase

Assets

2018 2019

$ $

Cash 81,228.66 105,653.46

Total Assets 81,228.66 105,653.46 30.1%

Fund Balance

Beginning 59,651.00 81,228.00

Surplus 21,576.70 24,425.46

Balance 81,228.66 105,653.46 30.1%

Balance Sheet

at August 31, 2019

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over 2018. It should be noted that there is an initiative underway by the Board of Directors to

develop an Investment Policy to better manage the Foundation’s cash assets.

The funds are earmarked for expanding our service offerings and other program building

activities as identified in our last Strategic Planning Process. This includes our Membership

Health Support Group activities and initiatives such as refunding support helpers’ parking costs

when accompanying members to hospitals for interviews and treatments. Other initiatives

include training for members to enable them to advise other members and others seeking

advice.

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7.0 Membership Report: Total Paid Members:

2018/2019 2017/2018 +/-

Male Members 34 14 +20 Female (Associate) Members **

18 6 +12

Total Membership 52 20 +32

**Associate members are non-voting members

Meeting Attendance 2018/19:

Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb March Apr May June

38 36+9* 36 32+8* 35+7* Symposium

Cancelled

41+9* 34+16* 34+8* 34+8*

*indicates women in attendance for the joint meetings

In Memoriam 2018/2019

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Members’ Feedback on how they are impacted by the Foundation:

Responses to the question: What did you like most about the organization and the sessions?

• The Walnut Foundation. .is a Psalm 119:105 to me. A Lamp for my feet, a light on my path. Blessings all the way!

• Men do not share or express their feelings is a saying I have heard over the years. The Walnut Foundation provides black men an opportunity to take charge of their health and to openly express their feelings. Over the past five years I have left every meeting with a little more knowledge about my health.

• To encourage men to check on their health status and build a support group among themselves is priceless

• Very impressed with the functionalities and post-death of Dr. Winston Isaac for the Foundation

o love the pocket size card for up coming events - helps for("quick overview to pass on to friends/future members") distribution.

o appearance of Ward 7 & 8 City Charmaine Williams at this year's Walkathon to help disseminate info to Bramptonians.

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o information from diabetic Educator informative to new members o lifestyle changes to eating habits to improve health. o cardiovascular conscious o verbal recruitment of perspective new members

• The Walnut Foundation: A welcoming place for me to learn about their health

• All sessions provided excellent information

• Facilitated discussion sessions were excellent, especially presentations on Medical Assisted Dying

• Dealing with Grief (passing of Dr. Isaac)

• Cannabis – Myths & Realities

• Engaging men directly to increase awareness and action on men’s health issues is, in my opinion, the most effective way to bring about positive change. The Walnut Foundation achieves this in creating an environment that allows men to discuss, express themselves and learn far more openly than is normally the case.

• The Walnut Foundation is one of the primary sources from which I receive medical information. It is not only through the presentations from medical practitioners but also from the discussions among persons on how they deal with their own medical situations. The organization succeeds in providing all of this in a conducive and pleasant atmosphere.

• Membership in the organization not only exposes one to availing greater overall health care information -thereby allowing for better decision-making, but as well affords opportunity for camaraderie and encouraging greater participation in its activities.

• Engaging men directly to increase awareness and action on men’s health issues is, in my opinion, the most effective way to bring about positive change. The Walnut Foundation achieves this, in creating an environment that allows men to discuss, express themselves and learn far more openly than is normally the case.

• The Walnut Foundation is where the meeting of minds get together to discuss important issues regarding men’s health and the dissemination of information. A place I find valuable to learn and express your ideas confidentially.

• The Men’s Health Organization taught me how to manage my health, the most important thing to me. My motto now is “know your numbers” and discuss them with your primary care physician.

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• I was a bit hesitant to get involved in the beginning but once I attended my first meeting with The Walnut Foundation, I have been going ever since and I find it to be a place where one can freely and confidentially express their views and opinions. It’s a place that has vast network of professionals with extensive arsenal of information relevant to the core values of the Foundation, its goals and aspirations for the members and the community as a whole.

• The major benefit of being a member of the Walnut Foundation is the ability to get the information on men’s health in one place from sources that I can trust. Then having the quality to share some of that information with relatives and friends. It provides another tool complementing the effort to stay fit and attempt to live a healthy lifestyle.

Monthly Meeting Schedule for September 2019 to June 2020

September 8, 2019 October 6, 2019

November 10, 2019 December 8, 2019

January 12, 2020 March 8, 2020

April 5, 2020 May 3, 2020

June 14, 2020

Meeting Time: 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Meeting Location: The William G. Davis Centre for Families, 60 West Drive,

Brampton.

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8.0 MAJOR EVENTS FOR 2019/2020: Save the dates.

• 2019 Institutional Health Fair hosted by Correctional Services Canada on September 30, 2019.

• Annual Conference on Prostate Health will be held on October 19, 2019.

• Annual Symposium will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2020 from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm (doors will open at 9:30 am. The Symposium is open to everyone. There is no charge.

• Annual Walk-a-Thon will take place on Saturday, June 6, 2020, starting at Loafers Lake Recreation Centre grounds.

• Annual Walnut Foundation Family BBQ will take place in June 2020 after the end of the Monthly Meetings cycle.

• Cultural Expressions’ Caribbean Style Breakfast will take place in July 2020.

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9.0 Application for Research Grant on the Incidence of Prostate Cancer in Black men in

Canada

The Walnut Foundation has entered into a joint application with Dr. Jackie Bender of UHN and

Dr. Aisha Lofters of Women’s College Hospital for CIHR funding to perform a research study in

the incidence of Prostate Cancer in Black Men in Canada. The application is the process of being

completed before the due date of October 10th. If successful, the research work will be

performed by Drs. Bender and Lofters along with a team of researchers from the University of

Toronto.

STUDY AIM

Prostate cancer is a highly prevalent condition in Canada and in Ontario. In this one-year study,

we aim to use provincial-level administrative and health databases to determine if Black men in

Ontario experience increased incidence, later stage diagnosis, and higher mortality for prostate

cancer compared to their peers. The proposed novel work is highly aligned with the ICR

strategic priority of cancer risk factor disparities and prevention service inequities.

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES

1. To use population-level data to determine if immigrant men from Black-majority countries

(our best available proxy for Black race) have increased incidence, later stage of diagnosis and

higher mortality than immigrants from other countries and than Canadian-born men

2. To explore potential differences in incidence, stage of diagnosis and mortality for immigrant

men from Black-majority countries and from other countries based on region of birth (e.g.

Caribbean, West Africa, East Africa) in order to better understand risk

3. To understand the role of sociodemographic and health factors for both presumed Black

men and other men with prostate cancer (including income, time in Canada, immigrant class,

and access to primary care) on incidence, stage of diagnosis and mortality

4. To hold a KTE event with Black community members, including prostate cancer survivors, to

share study findings and explore relevant interventions

STUDY TEAM

Dr. Aisha Lofters (NPI) is a Scientist at the Women’s College Hospital (WCH) Research Institute

and Associate Professor in the University of Toronto Department of Family & Community

Medicine. She currently holds a CIHR New Investigator Award and previously held a Career

Development Award in Cancer Prevention from the Canadian Cancer Society Research Institute

(CCSRI). She is also WCH Chair in Implementation Science at the Gilgan Centre for Women’s

Cancers and Cancer Care Ontario’s Provincial Lead, Primary Care, Cancer Screening. She has

extensive experience working with ICES data, including using the IRCC database to explore

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disparities in breast, cervical and CRC screening9,11,12,23,26-29,61,62, and stage of diagnosis for

cervical cancer and breast cancer12,63.

Dr. Jackie Bender (co-PI) is a social and behavioural scientist at ELLICSR: a health, wellness and

cancer survivorship centre at the University Health Network. She is also Assistant Professor in

the Dalla Lana School of Public Health and the Institute for Health Policy, Management and

Evaluation at the University of Toronto (UofT). Her program of research focusses on applied

research in cancer survivorship and implementation. She has been funded by Movember and

Prostate Cancer Canada, and she currently co-leads the design and evaluation of a novel web-

based peer navigation program for men with prostate cancer and their partners. She brings

expertise in prostate cancer, patient-oriented research, and an active collaborative relationship

with Walnut Foundation, a Black men’s health organization.

Dr. Geetanjali Datta (Co-I) is an Associate Professor in the Department of Social and Preventive

Medicine at the University of Montreal School of Public Health and a Researcher at the

University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre. Her current CIHR-funded work focuses on

individual- and macro-level determinants of cancer-related behaviours, including quasi-

experimental evaluation of the impact of policy on inequalities. She is currently the recipient of

a CCSRI Cancer Prevention Career Award and is a member of the Canadian Partnership Against

Cancer’s Equity Advisory Committee. She has published on prostate cancer mortality for Black

versus White men in the US based on geographic residence and birth state (ref).

Dr. Arjumand Siddiqi (Co-I) is a social epidemiologist and Canada Research Chair in Population

Health Equity and Associate Professor at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of

Toronto, where she also holds appointments in the Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of

Medicine and the Hospital For Sick Children, as well as at the Gillings School of Global Public

Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. She is interested in understanding how societal

conditions produce and resolve racial inequities in population health and human development

across the lifespan. Her research focuses primarily on the roles of resource inequities and social

policies, the methods and metrics that enable scientific inquiry on health inequities, and

mechanisms related to public and political uptake of evidence.

Dr.Shabbir Alibhai (Co-I) is a Professor in the University of Toronto Department of Medicine

and Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, staff physician in the Division of

General Internal Medicine at the University Health Network, a senior scientist at the Toronto

General Research Institute and the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, and a prior Research

Scientist of the Canadian Cancer Society. He is a senior health services researcher in cancer with

a focus on prostate cancer in older adults. He has published extensively on treatment patterns

and toxicity outcomes in men with prostate cancer as well as on quality of care issues.

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10.0 Moving Forward in 2020 and Beyond

The year 2020 is shaping up to be a turning point in the evolution of the Walnut Foundation as

this is the year that we elect new leadership to lead the organization. We deeply appreciate the

leadership of our deceased leader and this has allowed us to continue to run the organization

until we are ready to install new leadership.

This process has been delayed so that the board can review its current Constitution and policies

and make the necessary modifications which will provide the new leadership with the ability to

shape an organization for the future. In addition, the Board is reviewing the Board of Directors’

Roles and Responsibilities to ensure that they reflect a future organization. This will allow us to

invite new members to join the board but with a clear definition of roles, responsibilities and

expectations.

There are a number of major events that will raise the profile of the organization into the

future:

1. The 2019 Institutional Health Fair hosted by Correctional Services Canada on September 30, 2019. The Walnut Foundation in partnership with PCCN will be in attendance at the Bath Correctional Institute to provide information on Prostate Health to the inmates.

2. The Annual Conference on Prostate Health has attracted the support of Prostate Cancer

Canada, Movember and the major cancer hospitals. This conference will have an

attendance of over 200.

3. The application for a research grant to study the incidence of prostate cancer in black

men within the black community. If successful, it will further expose the organization to

greater scrutiny and respect with the black community and academia

4. Collaboration with Movember and Prostate Cancer Canada. We have been invited by

these organizations to link to and access their resources on Prostate Cancer. This would

allow our website to become a resource where men and their caregivers can go to learn

about their disease. This will require a revamping of our current website.

5. Improving our Service Delivery to our membership. We are developing policies and

procedures that will allow us to build a closer support mechanism for our membership.

This includes providing financial support to those members who accompany fellow

members in hospital and doctor visits. This includes parking fees ad other out of pocket

expenses.

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11.0 Our Supporters

We are grateful to:

• Dr. Jackie Bender, Scientist, ELLICSR Health, Wellness & Cancer Survivorship Centre, Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network;

• Janace King-Watson for guiding our Strategic Planning process and her ongoing support and advice;

• The Woodbridge Group for their Walkathon Sponsorship

• Manulife Securities for their Walkathon sponsorship;

• Mackenzie Investments for their Walkathon sponsorship;

• Manulife Bank for their Walkathon sponsorship;

• Cultural Expressions and Joyce Hurlock for the part proceeds from the Caribbean Style Breakfast;

• The “Women of The Walnut Foundation” for their work behind the scenes and at the Conference and Symposium;

• Winston and Vashti Mapp for hosting the “Annual Walnut Family BBQ” at their residence;

• Marie Samuels-Isaac for preparing the refreshments for the Monthly Meetings;

• Community supporters at the Walk-a-thon;

• Individuals who come as presenters to share their knowledge and experience at the Monthly Meetings;

• The men who continue to be present at the monthly meetings and the spouses and female family members for their encouragement in the work of The Walnut Foundation and their meeting attendance. Your financial contributions have also been greatly appreciated.

A Word to the Wise

Get checked

Talk to your Doctor

Know Your Numbers

A diagnosis of Prostate Cancer is not necessarily a death sentence

An early diagnosis allows for early treatment with your input

Which do you prefer? … a finger on your prostate or being six feet under?

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WALKTHON SPONSORS 2019

Responsible Investing

▪ Letitia Glasgow ▪ Gerry Calender ▪ Mary Jackson & Ken Noel ▪ Consul-Generals of the Caribbean Corps ▪ Carol McKintosh-Henry & Anthony

Henry

Donors of Prize Gift Baskets

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Empowering Men to take Responsibility for Their Health

93 Seclusion Cres.

Brampton Ontario, Canada L6R 1L1

905 799 2759

Fax 905 799 8345

info@thewalnutfoundation.com

www.thewalnutfoundation.com

facebook.com/thewalnutfoundation