Dempsey Center

Connect + Experience: Meal Kit Demonstration [Rock Row]
2025-11-19 15:00 - 16:30 (America/New_York) | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Looking for ways to stretch your food dollars? Experience a community meal and cooking demonstration led by University of New England (UNE) graduate students. Learn how to turn a Meals for Maine pantry kit into a delicious, budget-friendly dish, connect with others impacted by cancer, and enjoy a late-afternoon tea together. Each participant will receive a meal kit to take home.

Led by Michelle Small, Trisha Mason – UNE Director of Service Learning, and UNE Graduate Students.

Open to the public.

Cooking for Health + Healing [Rock Row]
2025-11-19 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.
Registration closes August 26.
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.

Advanced Cancer Care Partner Support Group - Afternoon [Dempsey Connects]
2025-11-19 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]
2025-11-19 14:00 - 16:00 | 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!

Knitting Group [Rock Row]
2025-11-19 13:00 - 15:00 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Join our group of survivor and care partner volunteers who gather to replenish our knitted and crocheted comfort item inventory, including such items as pocketed wraps, hats, and knitted knockers.

Led by Michelle Small.
Open to all adult Dempsey Center clients.

Do you prefer to volunteer knit or crochet from home? Please call Michelle Small at 207-376-9669 or email msmall@dempseycenter.org.

Knitting Group [Rock Row]
2025-11-19 13:00 - 15:00 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Join our group of survivor and care partner volunteers who gather to replenish our knitted and crocheted comfort item inventory, including such items as afghans (blankets), hats, and knitted knockers.

Led by Michelle Small.

Open to all adult Dempsey Center clients.

Do you prefer to volunteer knit or crochet from home? Please call Michelle Small at 207-376-9669 or email msmall@dempseycenter.org.

Stretch + Strengthen [Rock Row]
2025-11-19 12:30 - 13:15 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Join us in-person for a 6-week 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.

Advanced Cancer Care Partner Support Group [Dempsey Connects]
2025-11-19 11:30 - 13:00 | 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 Christine Brome, LCSW, OSW-C and Linda Coupe, LCPC.

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.

Yoga for Cancer Care [Rock Row]
2025-11-19 11:00 - 12:00 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, 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.

Advanced Cancer Support Group [Dempsey Connects]
2025-11-19 10:30 - 12:00, 2025-11-18 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.

Chair Yoga [Dempsey Connects]
2025-11-19 09:45 - 10:30 | Dempsey Connects
Join us for a gentle, accessible form of yoga, open to all levels of experience. Chair Yoga utilizes both seated and standing poses using a chair for support to provide all the benefits of a traditional yoga practice. We will use movement, breathing, and mindfulness to improve muscular strength, bone density, immune support, flexibility, energy, sleep, and 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.
This workshop will have both a virtual and in-person audience. You are signing up to attend virtually.

Chair Yoga [Rock Row]
2025-11-19 09:45 - 10:30 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Join us for a gentle, accessible form of yoga, open to all levels of experience. Chair Yoga utilizes both seated and standing poses using a chair for support to provide all the benefits of a traditional yoga practice. We will use movement, breathing, and mindfulness to improve muscular strength, bone density, immune support, flexibility, energy, sleep, and 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.
This workshop will have both a virtual and in-person audience. You are signing up to attend in-person at Rock Row.

Dempsey Dog Meet + Greet: Louise Cheese [Rock Row]
2025-11-19 09:00 - 10:00 | 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 into our Rock Row center 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.

Man Up to Cancer [Dempsey Connects]
2025-11-18 18:00 - 19:30 | Dempsey Connects
In partnership with the Man Up to Cancer team, we are proud to host this support group specifically designed for men to help them find connection and avoid isolation.

When faced with cancer, women tend to “reach out,” and men tend to “check out.” This leads men down the path toward mental health problems, strained relationships, and poor medical outcomes. It’s time for a new path. At Man Up to Cancer, are changing what it means to “Man Up.” It’s not just about being tough. It means having the courage to accept help, and knowing we are smarter and stronger as a pack than we are as lone wolves.

Led by Eric Rollins, LCSW, of Man Up to Cancer.

Open to Dempsey Center male identifying clients with any type of cancer at any part of their cancer journey.
Participants must be residents of Maine.

Advanced Cancer Support Group - Afternoon [Dempsey Connects]
2025-11-18 15:00 - 16:30 | 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 Michelle Hayes, LCSW, OSW-C and Jen Keefe, MSW Intern.

Open to Dempsey Center clients living 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.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Series [Rock Row]
2025-11-18 14:00 - 16:00 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is an evidence-based program that empowers participants to manage stress, pain, and illness through the practice of mindfulness. Together, we will explore practical skills and techniques that can enhance overall well-being. This series integrates mindfulness meditation, discussion, gentle movement, and stress reduction techniques to help individuals handle challenges like stress, illness, and pain more effectively.

Led by Mary Bitterauf, Nationally Board-Certified Health + Wellness Coach and MBSR Certified.

Open to adult Dempsey Center clients with a cancer diagnosis at any stage.

TaiChi + Qigong for Energy + Health [Dempsey Connects]
2025-11-18 14:00 - 14:45 | Dempsey Connects
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 Jason Ames, founder and owner of Maine Center for Taijiquan & Qigong.

Open to all adult Dempsey Center clients.

Financial Matters: Tools, Tips + Support [Rock Row]
2025-11-18 11:30 - 12:30 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Cancer is expensive — and managing finances during treatment can quickly become overwhelming. Between medical bills, lost income, and unexpected costs, it’s easy to feel unprepared. This workshop offers practical tools and guidance to help you navigate income changes, prioritize expenses, make difficult financial decisions, work with financial advisors, and plan for the future. Feel more confident about your financial planning through an open discussion designed to make a tough topic easier to face.

Led by Ted Gaiser.

Open to adult Dempsey Center clients.

Heal: Yoga + Cancer [Rock Row]
2025-11-18 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]
2025-11-18 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]
2025-11-18 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.

Rock Row Cancer Support Group Series [Rock Row]
2025-11-18 10:00 - 11:15 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Meet in person at our Rock Row location with others impacted by cancer in this 12-week support group. Whether you were recently diagnosed, in the midst of treatment, or are now with no evidence of disease, this group is a place to discuss your diagnosis and its lingering impact with those who truly understand.

Led by Jennifer Keefe, MSW Intern.

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

Morning Guided Meditation [Dempsey Connects]
2025-11-18 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.

Family Night: Connection, Creativity, + Community Resources [Off-Site]
2025-11-17 17:30 - 19:00 | Center for Grieving Children, 555 Forest Ave, Portland, ME, 04101, United States
Finding support when navigating the impact of a cancer diagnosis or other serious illness can be difficult. The Dempsey Center and Tender Living Care (TLC) at The Center for Grieving Children are collaborating to host a fun, family-oriented evening at TLC, where participants can explore available support systems, connect with others in the community, and enjoy creative activities together. This open house offers a chance to meet the teams behind both organizations, discover the services they provide, and tour the TLC space. Enjoy snacks, light refreshments, and meaningful conversation in a welcoming environment designed for families navigating serious illnesses.

Open families with children ages 3-18 years old.

Led by Christine Bowen, LCSW and Jamie Schwellenbach, LCPC, DMT.

To sign up for this family night, please call 877-336-7287 or email registration@dempseycenter.org.

This program will take place at the Center for Grieving Children, not the Dempsey Center.

Advanced Cancer Care Partner Support Group - Evening [Dempsey Connects]
2025-11-17 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.

Strength After Breast Cancer [Rock Row]
2025-11-17 12:00 - 13:00 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
Strength After Breast Cancer (SABC) is an 8-week exercise program open to clients with any cancer diagnosis in active or post-treatment. Presented by Seacoast Hand Therapy, this series is designed to teach individuals about the benefits of slow, progressive exercise and how it can reduce the onset and/or severity of lymphedema. SABC is also designed to improve strength and energy through safe upper and lower body stretches and strength exercises. Please note that this class is not restricted to clients with a breast cancer diagnosis.

Led by June Leary PT, CLT.

Open to Dempsey Center clients with any cancer diagnosis in active treatment or post-treatment.

Care Partner Support Group Series [Rock Row]
2025-11-17 11:00 - 12:30 | Dempsey Center – Rock Row, 11 Rock Row, Westbrook, ME, 04092, United States
If you are providing emotional and/or physical support to someone with cancer, this is the place for you. This 10-week group provides a safe, comfortable place to find the support, information, and understanding you need to continue caring for your loved one. We will discuss how to reduce isolation, worry, and fear.

Led by Sarah Kelley, LMSW-cc

Open to Dempsey Center clients who are care partners to a loved one diagnosed with cancer.

Dempsey Dog Meet + Greet: Rocco [Rock Row]
2025-11-17 10:00 - 11:30 | 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 into our Rock Row center and say “hi” to our Dempsey Dog Teams. No sign-up needed!

Rocco is expected most 1st + 3rd Mondays, 10:00-11:30AM.
