Dempsey Center Program Guide

Providing comfort through compassion, connection, and choice for people impacted by cancer. September -December 2023

Creatingcomfortthrough compassion,connection,andchoice.

From the day the doors of the Dempsey Center opened in 2008, our hope has been to make life better for people impacted by cancer. While our footprint has expanded both physically and digitally and our services have multiplied, we continue to provide services that bring compassion, connection, and choice to patients, survivors, care partners, family and friends.

As we expanded our services to a virtual platform, we continued to improve content delivery and meet the needs of clients, both current and future. To make attending workshops more accessible and felxible, we are excited to share that in Fall 2023, we will be providing many of our programs in an on-demand fashion! Beginning in midSeptember, you will be able to access many workshops when you want all from wherever you are. This format will allow one to watch a nutrition class while in the kitchen, access an educational workshop while getting treatment, or replay a movement and fitness class at a time when you are feeling your best. We look forward to hearing your experience with this new delivery format!

In this guide, you will discover all of the services available to you in our brave, welcoming spaces in Maine and virtually via Dempsey Connects. You can learn more about each of these offerings by visiting or website or by signing up for our email newsletter on our website.

When you are ready, the Dempsey Center is here to welcome you into our space and help you find the support that best helps you along the way.

When the time comes, give us a call (877.336.7287) or email us (info@dempseycenter.org) and our dedicated team of Client Experience Specialists will help you get started with the Dempsey Center. Working with a Client Journey Navigator™ will help you find the resources that will best serve you along your journey with cancer, no matter the impact.

Cara Valentino \\ President + CEO

SUPPORT GROUPS

for clients in active treatment or post-treatment.

ADVANCED CANCER SUPPORT GROUPS

WOMEN'S CANCER SUPPORT GROUPS

Wednesdays | 10:30

Tuesdays | 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM | Virtual

Thursdays | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM | Virtual

VIRTUAL CANCER SUPPORT GROUPS

dnesdays | 1:00 P

IN-PERSON CANCER SUPPORT GROUPS

days | 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM | S. Portland

days | 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM | S. Portland

Thursdays | 2:30 PM

SUPPORT FOR SURVIVORS

for clients approaching the end of treatment or in post-treatment.

WHA FIND TREA

THE N CANC

Wednesdays, September 20th - October 11th | 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM | Virtual

When cancer treatment ends the impact of cancer can often continue. Join us for this 4-week educational series to learn techniques for coping with the new physical and emotional reality of your post-treatment cancer journey. While connecting with other survivors, learn the importance of eating well-coupled with strategies to optimize your diet, identify how movement and fitness can care for your body and mind, and explore how complementary therapies can improve your well-being.

TRANSITIONING INTO SURVIVORSHIP

Wednesdays, October 18th - December 13th | 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM Virtual

Join others who are navigating life post-cancer treatment for this 8-week support group to discuss strategies for managing anxiety and planning for life after cancer.

SUPPORT GROUPS

for care partners and loved ones or bereaved clients.

CARE PARTNER

SUPPORT GROUPS

rsdays, September 7th - November 23rd | 12:00 - 1:30 PM | Virtual

ADVANCED CANCER CARE PARTNER SUPPORT

Mondays | 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM | Virtual Wednesdays | 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM | Virtual

Open to adult clients who are care partners to a loved one diagnosed with an advanced cancer. A telephone consult is required

GRIEF AFTER CANCER LOSS

Thursdays, September 7th - October 26th | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM | Lewiston

Open to adult clients who are grieving the loss of a loved one to cancer at least three months ago and within the last two years. A telephone consult is required before attending this group.

NAVIGATING GRIEF DURING THE HOLIDAYS

Wednesdays, November 8th - January 3rd | 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM | South Portland

Copingwiththedeathofalovedonecanbeoneofthemostdifficultexperiencesinlife.Addinthe holidayseason,andtheabsenceofalovedonecanbeisolating,confusing,andunknownterritory. Findsupportthroughotherswhoarealsogrievingandexplorehowtomovethroughtheholidays inawaythatfeelsaccessibletoyou.

Opentoadultswhoaregrievingthelossofalovedonetocanceratleastthreemonthsagoandwithin thelasttwoyears Atelephoneconsultisrequiredbeforeattendingthisgroup

ONCOLOGY COUNSELING

Individual oncology counseling appointments are available to Maine-based clients in-person at our offices in Lewiston and South Portland, Maine and virtually. As incidences of cancer have risen in Maine, so too has the demand for our services. We are currently experiencing an influx of requests for individual appointments and have a waitlist for these services. After becoming a Dempsey Center client, you may get placed on the waitlist and, in the meantime, access other support services that would best help you--no matter where you are on your cancer journey.

SUPPORT GROUPS

for young adult clients, ages 18-40ish.

YOUNG ADULT - CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

2nd + 4th Thursdays | 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM | Virtual

YOUNG ADULT MEET UP: NAVIGATING TOGETHER

Thursday, December 7th | 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM | South Portland AND Virtual

Navigating a cancer impact as a young adult comes with many unique challenges, and you don't have to do it alone There is a wealth of knowledge and insight gained along the cancer journey, and this meetup is all about tapping into the collective wisdom of the group Open to young adults with a cancer diagnosis or are a care partner to someone with cancer

YOUNG ADULT - CARE PARTNER GROUP

Wednesdays, starting September 20th | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM | Virtual

YOUNG ADULT - GRIEF AFTER PARTNER LOSS

Thursdays, September 28th - November 16th | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM | Virtual

Open to young adults who are grieving the loss of a partner to cancer at least three months ago and within the last two years. A telephone consult is required before attending.

YOUNG ADULT - GRIEF AFTER PARENT LOSS

Wednesdays, November 29th - January 24th | 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM | Virtual

Open to young adults who are grieving the loss of a parent to cancer at least three months ago and within the last two years. A telephone consult is required before attending.

YOUNG ADULT SUPPORT

for young adult clients, ages 18-40ish.

YOUNG ADULT WALK + TALK

Monday, September 11th | 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM | Maine Audubon at Gilsland Farm

Thursday, October 5th | 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM | A/L YMCA's Outdoor Learning + Education Center

Navigating a cancer impact as a young adult is heavy, but you don't have to do it alone. Join us for an informal meet-up in nature to connect with other young adults in Maine who are navigating a cancer impact.

YOUNG ADULT VIRTUAL GAME NIGHT

Thursday, November 2nd | 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM | Virtual

Join us for a virtual game night for a fun and stress-free way of connecting with other younger adults whose lives have been affected by a cancer diagnosis.

GUIDED GROUP SUPPORT

for clients of all ages.

GRATITUDE + GROWTH

Tuesdays, October 10th - November 14th | 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM | Virtual

Research demonstrates numerous benefits to cultivating an “attitude of gratitude.” These include improvements in physical, emotional and social well-being. Explore new ways to practice gratitude within a supportive community of other cancer patients and care partners in this 6-week series.

WOMEN'S BODY IMAGE + INTIMACY THROUGH CANCER

Wednesdays, October 18th - December 20th | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM | Virtual

Cancer treatment can cause physical, emotional, and mental changes that can be difficult to understand, and discuss, with others. This 10-week support group aims to provide a space for women who are seeking support around changes in body image and intimacy brought on by a cancer diagnosis.

CIRCLE OF SUPPORT DEMPSEYKIDS

Thursdays,

October 26th -

November 16th

A cancer diagnosis affects all members of a family, no matter the age.

In this 4-week group, kids ages 6-12 will learn about cancer and how to identify and use their circles of support to help them cope with their loved one's cancer journey.

3:30 PM - 4:45 PM

Week 1: Learning about our Circle & Cancer 101

Week 2: Big Feelings - what are they and what can I do with them?

29 Lowell St. 5th Floor

Lewiston, ME

Week 3: Relaxation & Coping Skills

Week 4: Naming our Circles of Support & Celebration

This group is appropriate for children in 1st-6th grade who have an immediate family or household member with a cancer diagnosis. Children are asked to make the commitment to attend all 4 weeks of this group.

Registration for this group can be done via email (registration@dempseycenter.org) or phone (877-336-7287).

YOUTH + FAMILY SUPPORT

MOVEMENT + FITNESS

DEMPSEY DOGA

With Dempsey Dog Meadow in Lewiston

Monday, October 30th | 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM

Monday, November 13th | 4:00 - 4:45 PM

With Dempsey Dog Bruce in South Portland

Wednesday, October 18th | 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM

Wednesday, December 6th | 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM

Open to clients ages 5 to 11. A parent/guardian must remain in the building.

TEEN MEET-UPS

for teen clients, ages 12-18

A place for teens to meet others in Maine impacted by a cancer diagnosis. We talk, hang out, and laugh together while trying a new activity. Pre-register by emailing us at registration@dempseycenter.org.

HANDS-ON HARVEST AT THE GARDEN

Tuesday, September 19th | 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM | A/L YMCA's Outdoor Learning + Education Center

YOGA + REIKI FOR RELAXATION

Tuesday, September 26th | 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM | South Portland

Tuesday, October 17th | 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM | Lewiston

PUMPKIN CARVING + GRATITUDE

Tuesday, October 24th | 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM | South Portland

open to families with youth under the age of 18

FAIRY HOUSES ON MACKWORTH ISLAND

Sunday, October 1st | 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM | Mackworth Island, Falmo

Playing outside is fun and beneficial to everyone! Meet up with other f and use your wildest imagination and teamwork skills to build fairy hou only what can be found in nature.

A WARM WINTER COCOON

Tuesday, November 7th | 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM | South Portland

Meet other families impacted by cancer a cozy cocoon, games, and relaxation techn decrease stress for kids and caregivers. Pa from one of the Dempsey Center’s volunt program.

CELEBRATION OF LIGHTS

Tuesday, December 5th | 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM | Lewiston

Join Dempsey Center youth, families, and staff for a celebration of ligh during the dark days of the winter season! Get moving with a Dempsey for dog yoga, create a family art project, and enjoy a scavenger hunt or of Bingo!

LOVE LAB FAMILY ART WORKSHOP

Saturday, September 9th | 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM | Love Lab, Portland, ME

Sunday, September 10th | 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM | Love Lab, Portland, ME

Join the Dempsey Center for a family art workshop at Love Lab Studio During this workshop, you and your children will be provided with the tools and space to collaboratively create a joyful, thoughtful piece of art while creating new memories together Led by Christina Bechstein of Love Lab Studios. Open to Dempsey Center youth ages 5-12 who have a parent/primary caregiver with advanced cancer and their immediate family members.

NUTRITION CLASSES + WORKSHOPS

EATING FOR ENERGY

Wednesday, September 27th | 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

In-Person in South Portland | Virtual

Fatigue is a common side effect of cancer and cancer treatments. Nutrition and eating certain foods are just one natural way to help combat this side effect. Join us to learn nutrition strategies to improve energy levels, create some easy meals, and discover quick snack options.

WHAT TO EAT D

sday, treatm hand aining

LET FOOD BE YOUR MEDICINE

Tuesdays, September 26th - October 17th | 2:00 PMSouth Portland

Thursdays, October 26th - November 16th | 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM |

In-Person in Lewiston OR Virtual

Discover the role of food as it relates to cancer and ove this four-part series, we will discuss how food can be us medicine to support health, as well as how to reduce yo cancer and other chronic illnesses. Each session will fea on cooking demonstration.

NUTRITION CLASSES + WORKSHOPS

SOUPS ON!

Tuesday, October 17th | 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Lewiston

Wednesday, November 15th | 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

South Portland

Calling all soup lovers! Learn the art of making delicious soup and adjusting the flavor to meet your personal taste bud needs. Discover new recipes and tricks to freeze your favorites for later meals.

TONICS + ELIXIRS FOR HYDRATION

Tuesday, November 7th | 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Lewiston

Tuesday, December 5th | 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

South Portland

Learn how to maintain good hydration with tasty beverages that support your immune system and overall health while helping manage GI issues commonly experienced during cancer treatment.

MEDITERRANEAN DIET FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Tuesday, December 12th | 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM | In-Person in Lewiston OR Virtual

Wednesday, December 13th | 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM | South Portland

Eating well during the holidays can be a challenge. Learn about the Mediterranean Diet, an eating style inspired by the cuisines of Greece, Italy, and other countries that border the Mediterranean Sea. This diet has been shown to reduce the risk of cancer and other types of chronic disease. Enjoy a cooking demonstration and discuss strategies to help you maintain healthy eating habits during the holidays, while still enjoying your favorite foods.

NUTRITION + EXERCISE FOR BONE HEALTH

Thursday, October 12th | 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM | In-Person in Lewiston | Virtual

Loss of bone density is common as people age and can be a result of nutrition deficiency, physical activity, or genetic factors. Certain type of cancer and their treatments may also contribute to weakened bones, also known as osteoporosis. This workshop will review diet an exercise guidelines to support your musculoskeletal system as you go thorough treatment and beyond. Led by a team of Dempsey Center Nutritionists and our Movement + Fitness Manager.

WORKSHOPS + SERIES

UNDERSTANDING LYMPHEDEMA

Thursday, December 7th | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM | Virtual

Lymphedema is a common side effect of many cancers and their treatments, causing swelling and subsequent pain and discomfort for many patients. Fortunately, with support and self-care tools, lymphedema can be managed and, in some cases, treated. Presented in partnership with ReVital Cancer Rehabilitation, join us to discuss the basics of lymphedema and self-care strategies.

MANAGING CANCER TREATMENT SIDE EFFECTS WITH CANNABIS + CBD

Friday, November 3rd | 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM | Virtual

From treating pain and nausea to helping to ease the symptoms of neuropathy, more and more studies demonstrate positive benefits from the safe use of CBD and other cannabinoids. In this informational session we will discuss alternative and adjunctive ways to manage the side effects of cancer and cancer treatments.

UNDERSTANDING CORDING + RADIATION FIBROSIS

Thursday, October 19th | 1:00 PM - 2 South Portland OR Le

Cording is a common condition that may occur after breast c related surgery and may limit mobility of the arm. Radiation fib marked by soft tissue tightness and weakened underlying m within a radiation field. Learn about these side-effects of treatment and how they can successfully be managed with interventions. We will discuss helpful stretches, manual techniqu strategies to minimize pain and limitations and restore function

WORKSHOPS

SPICY WARMING FOOT SOAK

Thursday, October 31 | 3:00 PM - 4:15 PM | Lewiston

Thursday, October 31 | 3:00 PM - 4:15 PM | South Portland

In this cool weather foot soak, warming foot soaks can be a great form of relaxation. Experience a few spicy options for foot soaks, instruction on self-massage of your feet (and hands if you so desire), and a short, guided imagery while enjoying your foot soak.

DIY FIZZY BATH BOMBS + SELF MASSAGE

Tuesday, December 12th | 4:30 PM - 5:45 PM | Lewiston

Tuesday, December 12th | 4:30 PM - 5:45 PM | South Portland

Join us to learn how to make fizzy bath bombs (with either relaxing or ene e at home or to give as gifts. Learn the benefits of a simple Epsom salt so s and spices. You’ll also learn strategies for self-mass .

YOMASSAGE®

Tuesdays, October 3rd - 17th | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM | Lewiston

Tuesdays, November 7th - 21st | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM | S. Portland

Yomassage® is a transformative mind-body-soul experience that allows you to relax in restorative yoga positions while receiving handson massage therapy and practicing mindfulness meditation. The combination of these 3 modalities: restorative stretch, mindfulness meditation, and therapeutic massage create an opportunity for a deep state of relaxation and union of the mind-body connection.

INDIVIDUAL SUPPORT

Massage, Reiki, and Acupuncture are offered at our offices in Lewiston and South Portland, Maine. As incidences of cancer have risen in Maine, so too has the demand for our services. We are currently experiencing an influx of requests for individual appointments and have a waitlist for these services. After becoming a Dempsey Center client, you may get placed on the waitlist and, in the meantime, access other support services that would best help you--no matter where you are on your cancer journey.

MOVEMENT + FITNESS CLASSES + SERIES

SURVIVOR STRONG℠: LIVING A BALANCED LIFE

Wednesdays, October 4th - 25th | 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM | S. Portland

This four-week series, led by Maine Strong Balance Physical Therapy, is focused on balance and the impact it can have on daily life. Throughout the series, we will outline the benefits of PT intervention for cancer survivors, discuss how cancer-related conditions can impact balance, conduct a fall risk screening, and provide hands-on balance training for those who need it.

MOVEMENT + EXERCISE THROUGH CANCER CARE

Tuesday, December 5th | 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Virtual

Let’s explore ways movement can help minimize cancer side effects and improve quality of life from diagnosis through survivorship. Led by Nikki Langstaff, PT, MS, CLT, Director of ReVital Cancer Rehabilitation.

STRENGTH AFTER BREAST CANCER

Mondays | October 16th - December 4th

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM | South Portland

An 8-week exercise program presented by Seacoast Hand Therapy designed to teach individuals about the benefits of slow, progressive exercise and how it can reduce the onset and/or severity of lymphedema.

INDIVIDUAL CONSULTATIONS

To help you manage physical activity and the changes you may be experiencing, the Dempsey Center provides movement and fitness consultations at no cost to cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers

A private appointment with our specialists can help you set personal movement and fitness goals; find strategies or alternatives to overcome any movement challenges caused by diagnosis or treatment; and build confidence in personal or group class settings

YOGA

CHAIR YOGA

Thursdays | 12:00 PM - 12:45 PM | Lewiston

Thursdays | 12:00 PM - 12:45 PM | Virtual

Weds | 9:45 AM - 10:30 AM | South Portland

YOGA FOR CANCER CARE

Mondays | 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM | Lewiston

Mondays | 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Virtual

Weds | 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM | S. Portland

TAI CHI

TAI CHI + QIGONG FOR ENERGY + HEALTH

FITNESS FOR LIFE

Thursdays, beginning October 5th 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM

In-Person in Lewiston | Virtual

STuesdays | 2:00 PM - 2:45 PM | Virtual

MINDFULNESS + MEDITATION

MORNING MEDITATION

Thursdays | 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM | Virtual

GUIDED MEDITATION

Tuesdays | 8:30 AM - 9:00 AM | Virtual

AUTUMN EQUINOX MEDITATION + CONTEMPLATION

Thursday, September 21st | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM Virtual

WINTER SOLSTICE MEDITATION + CONTEMPLATION

Thursday, December 21st | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM Virtual

MINDFULNESS WOODS WALKS

Mondays, October 16th - November 13th | 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Auburn/Lewiston YMCA's Outdoor Learning + Education Center

EXPRESSIVE ARTS

DOODLING FOR CALM

Monday, November 13th | 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM | Lewiston

Monday, December 4th | 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM | South Portland

Doodling can reduce stress levels while encouraging calm, relaxation, and positivity…and it’s fun! You don’t need any experience or skill to benefit from doodling. We will provide all supplies. Just show up and enjoy the benefits of doodling!

WRITING FROM THE HEART

Wednesdays, October 11th - November 29th 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM | Virtual

Research has shown that expressive writing can help improve quality of life for people living with cancer, and doing so in a supportive community with others further enhances coping and resilience Using therapeutic

WRITING THROUGH CANCER

Thursdays, October 26th - November 16th

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM | Virtual

Writing about your journey through cancer can be highly therapeutic and rewarding. In this 4week series, we will practice in-class writing exercises, write at home, read our work in class, and give feedback to others. Writing prompts will help get the ideas flowing in whatever form of writing we want to explore poetry, prose, memoir, or even fiction.

JOURNALING FOR CARE PARTNERS

Thursday, December 7th | 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM | Virtual

Join Maine writer and caregiver Sarah Kilch Gaffney for a workshop exploring how you can use writing and journaling through your care partner experience. You will meet others caring for a loved one with a cancer diagnosis, learn about the benefits of a writing and journaling practice, and get a chance to try out some different prompts and tools. No writing experience is necessary.

WELLBEING SUPPORT

ALL ABOUT WIGS

Friday, October 20th | 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Virtual

Are you facing losing your hair as a side-effect of cancer treatment? In this informational session, clients will learn what you should know about wearing and maintaining wigs We will discuss wig anatomy, best fits for success, care, and acclimating to wearing a wig, followed by a chance to ask questions. Plus, learn about the Dempsey Center’s no-cost wig and headwear services!

HENNA CROWNS + BODY ART

Wednesday, October 11th | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Lewiston

Henna is a medicinal plant used for over 5,000 years. Choose to have a Henna Crown or Body Art to honor your cancer journey. Henna art can be useful in connecting the mind, body, and spirit to bring beauty, uplift, and to promote joy and body-positivity. Scheduled in indvidiual 30-minute sessions. Art created by Mary Dunham of The Eye of Henna and 13 Moons Tattoo.

KNITTING GROUP

2nd Monday of the Month | 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM | Lewiston

3rd Wednesday of the Month | 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM | South Portland

A group of thriver and care partner volunteers that gather to replenish our knitted and crocheted comfort item inventory and offerings such items as afghans (blankets), hats, mittens, scarves, and knitted knockers.

COMFORT ITEMS

Quilts, knitted blankets, port protectors, heart pillows, chemo caps, knitted knockers, heat packs, and more are available to all Clients in Maine. Each item is made by our experienced team of volunteers and can be picked up when you visit one of our Centers.

WIG + HEADWEAR CONSULTATIONS

For clients who experience hair loss during the course of their treatment, donated and restored wigs and headwear options are available at no cost to Dempsey Center Clients. Our trained team can work with you to find a style that makes you feel confident as you move through treatment. We will also provide education on care and treatment of wigs.

OTHER COMPLEMENTARY SUPPORT + WELLBEING SERVICES

DEMPSEY DOGS

When you visit our Centers in Lewiston or South Portland, you may be greeted by a member of our Dempsey Dog team! Registered through Pet Partners, our Dempsey Dogs are brought to the Centers by their volunteer handlers, ready to bring comfort and joy to all those who choose to say 'hi'!

Meadow, every other Monday in Lewiston Louise Cheese, every other Monday in Lewiston Bruce, Tuesday evenings in South Portland Forest, Thursday mornings in South Portland

Individual appointments are also available with our Dempsey Dogs in both locations! 'Paws Together' in a private appointment with a Dempsey Dog for a moment of comfort and snuggles. Open to all Dempsey Center clients. Please see the front desk or speak with your CJN to schedule your individual visit.

WELLBEING EDUCATION

EASING RECOVERY WITH POSTMASTECTOMY AIDS

Tuesday, September 26th | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM | South Portland

Whether you are preparing for an upcoming mastectomy, recovering recent procedure, looking to restore symmetry and activity after brea surgery there are options. Let's talk about what’s out including choice products such as post-surgery garments, breast prostheses, bras, and compression wear. We will discuss a timeline for getting products fro immediately post-surgery to lifelong aids. Led by Hunter Arnold and M Fortier, a local certified mastectomy fitters from MedCOR Profession

SUPPORT THROUGH TREATMENT

MEMORY ATTENTION + ADAPTATION TRAINING

Mondays, September 4th - October 23rd | 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Virtual | Led by Elaina George, LMSW-cc

Thursdays, September 28th - November 16th | 2:00 - 3:00 PM | Lewiston | Led by Thomas Miller, PhD

Struggling with memory issues during or after cancer treatment? You are not alone. In this workshop, participants will learn strategies that will improve their cognitive functioning and quality of life. This program has been shown to be the most helpful to patients who are 6 months or more post-treatment.

UNDERSTANDING FATIGUE

Tuesday, October 17th | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM | Virtual Tuesday, December 5th | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM | Virtual

Fatigue is a common troublesome side effect of cancer and its treatment. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to recognize cancer-relat fatigue and explore strategies to conserve and maximize your energy.

COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE TEAM FOR CARE PARTNERS

Wednesday, November 8th | 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Virtual

A cancer diagnosis opens up a world of questions for the patient and their care partners, but many often struggle with communicating their questions to their healthcare team To help you communicate effectively with your loved one's doctor, nurses, and other members of their healthcare team, you’ll get answers to questions such as: How do you advocate for the person you care for? What if I don't understand what I am being told? and more Presented by Dr Jas

BETTER SLEEP, BETTER HEALTH

Tuesday, Sept. 19th | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM | Virtual Tuesday, Nov. 7th | 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM | Virtual

Getting good sleep has been shown to improve overall health an how to adjust your sleep cycle so it is in sync with your circadian night and a more productive day.

EDUCATIONAL CLASSES + WORKSHOPS

CANCER + GENETICS: UNDERSTANDING YOUR RISKS

Monday, November 6th | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Virtual

Do you wonder how genetics may impact the risk of cancer for you and your family? In this virtual workshop, gain an understanding of the inherited risks of cancer and learn how this information can help with early detection, prevention, and treatment for you and your family members. Led by Kelsey Fusco, MS and Hannah Novak, MS, CGC - cancer genetic counselors at New England Cancer Specialists.

SKINCARE DURING CANCER TREATMENT

Tuesday, October 24th | 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Virtual

Cancer treatments can be tough on your skin. Dryness, itching, blisters, rashes, sores, peeling, cracking, and red, dark patches are some of the changes commonly experienced. Join us to talk about how you can care for your skin while undergoing treatment. Led by Dr. Sarah Villafranco, founder of Osmia Organics.

CANCER + ALCOHOL: HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?

Thursday, October 5th | 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM | In-Person in Lewiston OR Virtual

Studies have shown a connection between alcohol consumption and our health. But what is the connection between alcohol and cancer? In this workshop, led by Dr. Lisa Rutstein of Central Maine Healthcare, we will explore how alcohol impacts sleep, depression, weight management, and more and how those can affect the way people cope with a cancer diagnosis and being a care partner.

IN A FOG: CHEMO BRAIN Q+A

Monday, November 6th | 10:30 - 11:30 AM Virtual

If you are unable to remember certain things, have trouble finishing tasks, difficulty concentrating, or learning new skills, you may have “chemo brain.” This informational session breaks down the characteristics of chemo brain, as well as strategies to help manage symptoms. Dr. Mack Murtagh, Psy.D., QBISPT of Goodwill of NNE Neurorehabilitation Services.

WHAT IS HOLISTIC HEALTH?

Thursday, October 19th | 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM | Virtual

When you hear ‘holistic health’ a multitude of things may come to mind. But do you want to know more about what it is? Join us for an overview of what Holistic Health is, how it can complement Western medicine, and finding the pieces that will work for you as you move through cancer treatment and beyond.

Our Honoring Choice worksh wishes while learning about a will provide education to he advance care and end-of-life p

THE CONVERSATION

Friday, September 8th | 11:00 AM

Virtually via Dempsey Connects

This workshop will explore the tool what matters most to you and how communicate that to your loved on healthcare team so your wishes can understood and respected. Led by Hayes, LCSW, OSW-C.

LET'S TALK ABOUT PALLIATIVE CARE

Friday, September 29th | 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Virtually via Dempsey Connects

Palliative care can be appropriate at any age and at any stage in a serious illness, and it can be provided along with curative treatment In this workshop, we will discuss what palliative care is, how it differs from hospice, and what you can expect at a palliative care visit Led by Dr David Dumont, MD, FACEP, FAAFP, HMD-C

MAINE DEATH WITH DIGNITY

Friday, October 13th | 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Virtually via Dempsey Connects

This informational workshop will provide factbased information regarding medical aid in dying, and Maine’s law followed by a chance to ask questions. Led by Valerie Lovelace of Maine Death with Dignity.

Friday, October 6th | 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Virtually via Dempsey Connects

Join us to learn what hospice does and does not mean, how to access this benefit, and what to expect for yourself or your loved one entering hospice care. Led by Kelly Caouette of CHANS Home Health and Hospice.

CLAYTON'S HOUSE

For patients and care partners who have to travel 30+ miles to receive treatment, the doors of Clayton's House are open to you Clayton's House is a short distance from Maine Medical Center, Northern Light Health Locations, and New England Cancer Specialists, making it easy to access your treatment appointments.

At Clayton’s House, we are dedicated to providing a home away from home an oasis of comfort and solace for those impacted by cancer. Located in Portland’s picturesque East End, Clayton’s House is a place where cancer patients, their care partners, and loved ones can stay at no cost while receiving or traveling for cancer treatment.

Amenities include: four bedrooms, fullystocked pantry and open kitchen, free-touse laundry, outdoor seating + gardens, access to on-site and virtual Dempsey Center programs and so much more.

Staying at Clayton’s House requires a patient care team member referral and a screening call with a member of our highlytrained team. To request a stay at Clayton's House, please contact your healthcare team or email us at info@dempseycenter.org to learn more.

Have you been curious about the Lewiston Dempsey Center or have you been using our virtual services and not visited our Lewiston space in-person? Join us for a cup of tea, a tour, and some tips for self-care!

Teas, Tours, and Self-Care Tips are open to the public. Call us, send an email, or visit the QR code below to sign up!

Teas, Tours, and Self-Care Tips

Thursday, October 5th 2:00 - 3:00 PM

Dempsey Center Cancellation + Attendance Policies

CANCELLATIONS FOR APPOINTMENTS

For anyone impacted by cancer, there may be circumstances that arise requiring a cancellation of an upcoming appointment at the Dempsey Center. Should this occur, please provide at least a 24-hour notice of your cancellation, if at all possible

CANCELLATIONS FOR SERIES, WORKSHOPS, AND SUPPORT GROUPS

The Dempsey Center is proud to offer numerous services at no-cost to our clients Many of our classes and workshops fill quickly, creating waitlists for interested parties. We understand that there are many circumstances that may arise causing the inability to attend a registered class for any of our clients. In order to ensure that our classes are open and available to everyone, we ask that you please provide at least a 24-hour notice should you be unable to attend, if at all possible

As many of our classes fill quickly, if two sessions or classes are missed in a row without a notice to the Dempsey Center team, you will be removed from the registration roster. You can resubmit registration at any time, but please be aware that you may be placed on a wait list.

WAITLIST POLICIES

if you are trying to get into a full series, workshop, or support group, you will be placed on a waitlist to attend. When a spot opens up, we will move through the waitlist in the order in which names are added.

If you are selected to be moved off the waitlist, you will receive a phone call or email notifying you. You will have 48 hours to respond to the notification, confirming your enrollment. If we don't hear from you, we will contact you again and you will then have another 24 hours to respond. If you do not respond after that time, we will consider you unable to attend and will continue to move through our list