Dempsey Center

The Next Chapter: Support After Cancer Treatment [Dempsey Connects]
2026-02-17 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Dempsey Connects
Do you have questions about navigating life post cancer treatment? Are you looking for ways to care for your physical and emotional well-being after treatment has ended? Do you want to connect with others who ‘get it’?

Join us for this 4-week 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.
Attendance at all four sessions is highly recommended.

Week 1 – CONNECT: Meet with others in a similar place in their cancer journey.
Week 2 – FEEL WELL: Discover new ways to move your body and learn about how complementary therapies can care for your body and mind.
Week 3 – EAT WELL: Learn how to optimize your diet and eat well through survivorship.
Week 4 – FEEL: Discuss the emotional realities post-treatment.

Led by Allison Burt, LCSW, OSW-C; Judy Donnelly, RDN; Tish Caldwell, Certified Oncology Fitness Instructor; Liz Como, LMT; Michelle Hayes, LCSW, OSW-C.

Open to Dempsey Center clients who are no longer receiving ‘active’ treatment (ex. Chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, etc.)
We acknowledge that the ‘end’ of cancer treatment can look very different from person to person. If you are not sure if this program is right for you, please contact Allison Burt, LCSW at aburt@dempseycenter.org to learn more.

Advanced Cancer Support Group [Dempsey Connects]
2026-02-17 10:30 - 12:00 | Dempsey Connects
If you are living with an advanced cancer diagnosis, this is a safe place to explore ways to cope with the challenges of living with advanced illness and continue to find meaning and hope through discussion and connection.
Led by Kerry Irish, LCSW, OSW-C.
Open to adult Dempsey Center clients living with advanced cancer.
Participants must be residents of Maine.

Online sign up is not available for this group. A telephone consult is required before attending. Please call us at (877)336-7287 or email registration@dempseycenter.org to request your consult.

Heal: Yoga + Cancer [Rock Row]
2026-02-17 10:30 - 11:30 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
This series includes yoga postures, flowing movements and focus on breath to help students achieve relaxation and mobility in everyday life. Conscious effort to link breath with movement helps relieve tension, helps students gain flexibility and improve mobility and strength in the body. No yoga experience necessary.
Led by Jamie Navarro, Yoga in Action Certified Yoga Instructor.
Open to Dempsey Center clients in active treatment and their primary care partner.
Please note that participants must be able to transition from floor to standing.

Yoga for Cancer Care [Lewiston]
2026-02-17 10:30 - 11:30 | Dempsey Center – Lewiston (12 High Street), 12 High Street, Lewiston, ME, 04240, United States
Reduce stress, manage treatment side-effects, and aid cancer recovery through a unique evidence-based yoga method specifically for those diagnosed with cancer. Through movement, breathing, and mindfulness, this practice aims to provide benefits such as muscular strength, bone density, immune support, flexibility, and improved posture.
Led by Tish Caldwell, Dempsey Center’s Movement + Fitness Manager, Certified Oncology Yoga Instructor.
Open to Dempsey Center clients in active treatment or post-treatment and their primary care partner.
Please note that participants must be able to transition from floor to standing.

This series will be taking place at the YMCA located at 12 High Street (CMMC) in Lewiston.

Dempsey Dog Meet + Greet: Louise Cheese [Lewiston]
2026-02-17 10:00 - 11:30 | Dempsey Center – Lewiston (17 High Street), 17 High Street, Lewiston, ME, 04240, United States
Therapy dogs can help to provide emotional support, alleviate stress, improve moods, and help boost confidence. We are proud to encourage the animal-human bond through our teams of Dempsey Dogs, trained and registered by Pet Partners.

Drop in and say “hi” to our Dempsey Dog Teams. No sign up needed!

Interested in spending some time with one of our Dempsey Dogs teams individually? Call 877-336-7287 to schedule your private Paws Together appointment with one of our therapy dog teams.

Morning Guided Meditation [Dempsey Connects]
2026-02-17 08:00 - 08:30 | Dempsey Connects
Start your day with presence of mind and improved focus through a guided meditation session. These ongoing series will help you incorporate meditation as part of your daily routine and is designed for both beginners and those looking to establish a more consistent practice.

Led by Kerry Irish, LCSW, OSW-C, FAOSW.

Open to all Dempsey Center clients.

Advanced Cancer Care Partner Support Group - Evening [Dempsey Connects]
2026-02-16 17:00 - 18:30 | Dempsey Connects
If you are a care partner to someone with an advanced or metastatic cancer diagnosis, we welcome you to this space. This group provides a safe, comfortable place to find the support, information, and understanding you need to continue caring for your loved one and yourself. Together, we can find ways to help you reduce isolation, worry, and fear as you provide emotional and/or physical support throughout the journey.
Led by Jen Dimond, LCSW, OSW-C and co-facilitated with Volunteer Support Group Facilitator, Judi Stevens.
Open to adult Dempsey Center clients who are care partners to a loved one diagnosed with advanced cancer.
Participants must be residents of Maine.
Online sign up is not available for this group. A telephone consult is required before attending. Please call us at (877)336-7287 or email registration@dempseycenter.org to request your consult.

Cooking for Health + Healing [Rock Row]
2026-02-16 14:30 - 16:30 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Improve your skills in the kitchen and discover the role of food as it relates to overall health during and after cancer treatment. In this 4-week series, you will learn how food can be used to support health, regain strength, reduce your risk of cancer and other chronic illnesses, while discovering new ways to add nutrients to your diet. Each week, clients will participate in preparing recipes with assistance from our nutritionist.

Featured weekly topics include:

The Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Eating for a Healthy Heart
Carbohydrates and Fiber
Adding Color to Your Plate

Led by Judy Donnelly, RDN, CSO, LD, Nutrition Program Manager.

Open to all Dempsey Center Clients.
Participants are strongly urged to attend all sessions.

Please note that this class does require participation, which may include standing and moving about our demonstration kitchen. Sign up requires a telephone consult before attending.
Participants must bring their own containers to transport prepared food home.

Yoga for Cancer Care [Dempsey Connects]
2026-02-16 10:30 - 11:30 | Dempsey Connects
Reduce stress, manage treatment side-effects, and aid cancer recovery through a unique evidence-based yoga method specifically for those diagnosed with cancer. Through movement, breathing, and mindfulness, this practice aims to provide benefits such as muscular strength, bone density, immune support, flexibility, and improved posture.
Led by Tish Caldwell, Dempsey Center’s Movement + Fitness Manager, Certified Oncology Yoga Instructor.
Open to all Dempsey Center clients.

Please note that participants must be able to transition from floor to standing.

Fitness for Life [Rock Row]
2026-02-16 09:30 - 10:15 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Exercise can help fight fatigue, boost your energy level, support your immune system, relieve stress and tension, make your muscles and heart stronger, improve balance and help you sleep better. This 45-minute class will provide you with all the fundamentals of an exercise program, adapting it to meet the needs of varying levels of fitness with a warm-up, aerobic activity, core and strength training exercises, and finishing with a cooldown/stretch. Please wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes or sneakers and have a sturdy chair available on a non-skid surface and small handheld weights.

Led by Tish Caldwell, Dempsey Center’s Movement + Fitness Manager, Certified Oncology Yoga Instructor, and Livestrong Cancer Exercise Trainer.

Open to Dempsey Center clients in active treatment or post-treatment.

Fitness for Life [Dempsey Connects]
2026-02-16 08:00 - 17:00 | Dempsey Connects
Exercise can help fight fatigue, boost your energy level, support your immune system, relieve stress and tension, make your muscles and heart stronger, improve balance and help you sleep better. This 45-minute class will provide you with all the fundamentals of an exercise program, adapting it to meet the needs of varying levels of fitness with a warm-up, aerobic activity, core and strength training exercises, and finishing with a cooldown/stretch.
Please wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes or sneakers and have a sturdy chair available on a non-skid surface and small handheld weights.

Led by Tish Caldwell, Dempsey Center’s Movement + Fitness Manager, Certified Oncology Yoga Instructor, and Livestrong Cancer Exercise Trainer.

Open to all Dempsey Center clients.

This series will have both an in-person and virtual audience. You are signing up to attend virtually

Honoring Choice: 5 Wishes Advanced Care Planning [Dempsey Connects]
2026-02-13 11:00 - 12:00 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Advanced care planning conversations are important though often difficult and confusing. By taking the time to make your decisions known, your directives can help alleviate fear and worry for you and your loved ones.
Five Wishes is the most popular advanced directive in the United States, meeting the legal requirements in several states, including Maine. The document is easy to understand. All you need to do is check the box, circle the direction or write a few sentences to make your needs known. We’ll walk through the document and learn what options are available to you and your family in this brief, one-hour workshop.

Led by Allison Osgood, Hospice Liaison at Beacon Hospice.
Open to the public. Public sign up at https://www.dempseycenter.org/services/classes-workshops/public/.

Mediterranean Diet [Rock Row]
2026-02-13 10:00 - 11:30 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
The Mediterranean Diet is an evidence-based style of eating associated with reduced risk for heart disease. Join us for this educational cooking session featuring tasty, heart-healthy recipes to help you modify your diet without sacrificing flavor!

Led by Judy Donnelly, RDN, CSO, LD, Nutrition Program Manager.

Open to adult Dempsey Center clients.

Qigong for Wellness [Rock Row]
2026-02-13 10:00 - 11:00 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Qigong is a movement therapy that promotes the flow of energy in the body to improve health. Suitable for all ages, this class will emphasize the practice and cultivation of different exercises that provide benefits such as improved balance, range of motion, and core strength, as well as pain management and decreased stress and anxiety.
Open to Dempsey Center clients with a cancer diagnosis at any stage and their primary care partner.
Led by Ronnie Wilson RN/NP Certified Tai Chi + Qigong instructor

Young Adult Cancer Support Group [Dempsey Connects]
2026-02-12 17:30 - 18:45 | Dempsey Connects
Work, relationships, sexuality, intimacy, finances, family, parenting, college…adulting is just different with a cancer diagnosis. This group is a place for young adults at any point in their cancer journey to connect and socialize with others who understand the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. We share stories, struggles and laughter and identify ways to cope day to day.
Led by Kristen Breault, LCSW and Libby Gordon, Volunteer Support Group Facilitator.
Open to adult Dempsey Center clients ages 18-40ish with a cancer diagnosis, at any point in their cancer journey.
Participants must be residents of Maine.

Yoga for Cancer Care - Evening [Dempsey Connects]
2026-02-12 17:30 - 18:30 | Dempsey Connects
Reduce stress, manage treatment side-effects, and aid cancer recovery through a unique evidence-based yoga method specifically for those diagnosed with cancer. Through movement, breathing, and mindfulness, this practice aims to provide benefits such as muscular strength, bone density, immune support, flexibility, and improved posture.
Led by Heather Edgerly Certified Oncology Yoga Instructor.
Open to all adult Dempsey Center clients.
Please note that participants must be able to transition from floor to standing.

Dempsey Dog Meet + Greet: Bruce [Rock Row]
2026-02-12 17:00 - 18:00 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Therapy dogs can help to provide emotional support, alleviate stress, improve moods, and help boost confidence. We are proud to encourage the animal-human bond through our teams of Dempsey Dogs, trained and registered by Pet Partners.
Drop in and say “hi” to our Dempsey Dog Teams. No sign up needed!

Rejuvenate: Yoga + Massage [Rock Row]
2026-02-12 14:30 - 15:45 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Experience the harmonious fusion of restorative yoga and massage. You will be guided into a variety of supported yoga postures, and while you relax into the poses and receive gentle hand, foot, back and neck massage from a member of our massage team. This unique combination offers a chance for profound relaxation, comfort, and rejuvenation.
No prior experience with yoga or massage is necessary.
Modifications can be made for clients who find it challenging to transition from floor to standing.

Led by Dempsey Center Staff.

Open to Dempsey Center clients in Active or Post Treatment.

Dempsey Dog Meet + Greet: Forest [Rock Row]
2026-02-12 10:30 - 12:00 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States

Virtual Cancer Support Group [Dempsey Connects]
2026-02-12 10:00 - 11:30 | Dempsey Connects
Meet virtually with others impacted by a cancer diagnosis in this weekly support group. Whether you were recently diagnosed, in the midst of treatment, or are in remission, this group is a place to discuss your diagnosis and its lingering impact with those who truly understand.

Led by Paige Moore, LCSW, CAGC, OSW-C.

Open to Dempsey Center clients with a cancer diagnosis at any stage.
Participants must be Maine residents.

Advanced Cancer Support Group - Morning [Dempsey Connects]
2026-02-12 10:00 - 11:30 | Dempsey Connects
If you are living with an advanced cancer diagnosis, this is a safe place to explore ways to cope with the challenges of living with advanced illness and continue to find meaning and hope through discussion and connection.
Led by Kailie Sullivan, LCSW, OSW-C and Judi Stevens, Volunteer Support Group Facilitator.

Open to adult Dempsey Center clients living with advanced cancer.
Participants must be residents of Maine, New Hampshire, or Massachuesetts.

Online sign up is not available for this group. A telephone consult is required before attending. Please call us at (877)336-7287 or email registration@dempseycenter.org to request your consult.

Tai Chi + Qigong for Energy + Health [Rock Row]
2026-02-12 10:00 - 11:00 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
No class February 26 or March 5.

Tai Chi is a movement therapy that promotes the flow of energy in the body to improve health. Suitable for all ages, this class will emphasize the practice and cultivation of different exercises that provide benefits such as improved balance, range of motion, and core strength, as well as pain management and decreased stress and anxiety.

Led by Cal Clark, LMT, Polarity Therapist, Certified Qi Gong Instructor.

Open to Dempsey Center clients in active treatment or post-treatment and their primary care partner.

Fitness for Life [Lewiston]
2026-02-12 10:00 - 10:45 | Dempsey Center – Lewiston (12 High Street), 12 High Street, Lewiston, ME, 04240, United States
Exercise can help fight fatigue, boost your energy level, support your immune system, relieve stress and tension, make your muscles and heart stronger, improve balance and help you sleep better. This 45-minute class will provide you with all the fundamentals of an exercise program, adapting it to meet the needs of varying levels of fitness with a warm-up, aerobic activity, core and strength training exercises, and finishing with a cooldown/stretch. Please wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes or sneakers and have a sturdy chair available on a non-skid surface and small handheld weights.

Led by Tish Caldwell, Dempsey Center’s Movement + Fitness Manager, Certified Oncology Yoga Instructor, and Livestrong Cancer Exercise Trainer.

Open to Dempsey Center clients in active treatment or post-treatment and their primary care partner.

Mindful Doodling to Unwind [Rock Row]
2026-02-12 09:00 - 10:30 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Join us to explore the art of mindful doodling—a simple yet powerful way to express creativity, relax, and focus the mind. Through guided doodling exercises, we’ll explore repetitive patterns and designs that encourage mindfulness and presence. Mindful doodling serves as a therapeutic escape from stress and anxiety, providing a peaceful, meditative outlet for your emotions and thoughts. Come to create, connect, and cultivate inner calm.
Remember, it’s all about the process, not the final product—no artistic experience is required!

Led by Tricia Gilbert.

Open to adult Dempsey Center clients.

Sojourn: A Spiritual Care Series [Dempsey Connects]
2026-02-11 15:00 - 16:15 | Dempsey Connects
Cancer can be a powerful force in our exploration and living into the deep questions of what it means to be human and mortal. For those looking to deepen this understanding in relationship, we invite you to join us for Sojourn, a new 8-week spiritual care series. The word Sojourn means a temporary stay. In this context, Sojourn offers a pause for rest and renewal within the cancer experience —a reflective space that aims to create and provide space to question, wonder, identify, and express through peer support, expressive arts activities, and meaningful discussion.

“You will be graced with the necessary catastrophes. They will take away your hiding places and reveal unbelievable beauty.” — Andrew Harvey.

Led by Kerry Irish, LCSW, OSW-C, FAOSW and Rev. Abby Pettee

Open to adult Dempsey Center clients.
Participants must be a Maine state resident.

Advanced Cancer Care Partner Support Group - Afternoon [Dempsey Connects]
2026-02-11 14:30 - 16:00 | Dempsey Connects
If you are a care partner to someone with an advanced or metastatic cancer diagnosis, we welcome you to this space . This group provides a safe, comfortable place to find the support, information, and understanding you need to continue caring for your loved one and yourself. Together, we can find ways to help you reduce isolation, worry, and fear as you provide emotional and/or physical support throughout the journey.

Led by Michelle Hayes, LCSW, OSW-C and Jennifer Keefe, MSW Intern.

Open to Dempsey Center clients who are care partners to a loved one diagnosed with advanced cancer.
Participants must be residents of Maine, New Hampshire, or Massachusetts.

Online sign up is not available for this group. A telephone consult is required before attending. Please call us at (877)336-7287 or email registration@dempseycenter.org to request your consult.

Dempsey Dog Meet + Greet: Rudy [Rock Row]
2026-02-11 14:00 - 16:00 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States

Stretch + Strengthen [Rock Row]
2026-02-11 12:30 - 13:30 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Join us in-person for a progressive series that combines Pilates and Yoga principles to enhance core strength and stability to promote better balance. We will also focus on improving flexibility, muscular strength, endurance, posture, and alignment.
No experience required.

Led by Tish Caldwell, Dempsey Center’s Movement + Fitness Manager, Certified Oncology Yoga Instructor and Certified Pilates Instructor.

Open to Dempsey Center clients in active treatment or post-treatment and their primary care partner.
Please note that participants must be able to lay on their backs and transition from floor to standing.

This class is offered in person at Rock Row and virtually. You are signing up to attend in Rock Row.

Stretch + Strengthen [Dempsey Connects]
2026-02-11 12:30 - 13:30 | Dempsey Connects
Join us for a progressive series that combines Pilates and Yoga principles to enhance core strength and stability to promote better balance. We will also focus on improving flexibility, muscular strength, endurance, posture, and alignment.
No experience required.

Led by Tish Caldwell, Dempsey Center’s Movement + Fitness Manager, Certified Oncology Yoga Instructor and Certified Pilates Instructor.

Open to all adult Dempsey Center clients.
Please note that participants must be able to lay on their backs and transition from floor to standing.

This class has a virtual and in person at Rock Row option. You are signing up to attend virtually.
