Rene Caisse Sculpture | Town of Bracebridge

This bronze sculpture commemorates Rene Caisse (1888–1978), a nurse who became internationally known for her work with the herbal remedy known as Essiac. The name "Essiac" was created by spelling Caisse's surname backward.

During the 1920s, while working as a nurse in Northern Ontario, Caisse learned of an herbal remedy that had reportedly been used by Indigenous healers. Intrigued by its history and potential benefits, she began researching the formula and providing it to patients seeking alternative treatment options. Over the following decades, thousands of people travelled to Bracebridge to consult with Caisse at her clinic.

The statue's location was carefully chosen near the route visitors once followed to reach Caisse's clinic on Dominion Street. It stands as a reminder of the significant role she played in the community and the lasting interest in her work.

While Essiac became widely known and remains popular among some naturopathic practitioners, its effectiveness as a treatment for cancer has been the subject of considerable debate. Scientific reviews and government evaluations have not found sufficient clinical evidence to support claims that Essiac is an effective cancer treatment. Nevertheless, Rene Caisse's dedication to caring for patients and her influence on alternative medicine continue to be remembered and discussed today.

Funded by the Essiac Canada Foundation, the sculpture honours Rene Caisse's legacy and her unique place in both Bracebridge history and Canada's healthcare story.

About The Artist

Brenda Wainman-Goulet was a respected Canadian sculptor based in Huntsville, Ontario, and a graduate of the Ontario College of Art and Design. Her early years spent in Algonquin Provincial Park had a lasting influence on her work, which often reflected a deep connection to nature, place, and storytelling. Working primarily in bronze and bas-relief, Brenda created art that balanced technical skill with warmth, humanity, and a subtle sense of whimsy.

Over a career spanning more than 30 years, Brenda completed numerous public and private commissions across Muskoka and beyond, creating some of the region's most recognizable and beloved public sculptures.

A dedicated contributor to the arts community, Brenda was an active member of the Muskoka Autumn Studio Tour and a mentor and advocate for fellow artists. Following her passing in January 2025, her artistic legacy continues to enrich communities across Muskoka and beyond, preserving local stories, people, and history through her enduring works of public art.