Bearing the name of the popular actor, Patrick Dempsey, the Dempsey Center for Hope & Healing in Lewiston, Maine is a support center for cancer patients and their caregivers, which is run in part by coordinator Mary Dempsey, Patrick’s sister. Mary and Patrick Dempsey, natives of Lewiston, started this center as their mother has battled cancer three times and is a strong survivor.

Mary Dempsey and the staff at the center were an enormous help to me personally while my father underwent cancer treatments. It’s an incredible resource for the small community and local hospital. You can also learn about the Quilt Project, and participate as a quilter, or purchase a memorial square.

On October, 4th, they are holding the first Dempsey Challenge – a cycle, run or walk fundraising event to support the Center, and help it grow outside of its current space. While registration is closed (already 3500 participants!) – you can still volunteer your time in several ways, or donate directly to the cause.The local news station, WMTW, took a tour of the center and talked with its staff about their services and the Dempsey Challenge fundraising event. (Watch the video)

Professional cyclists and Tour de France riders David Zabriskie and George Hincapie. along Patrick Dempsey are scheduled to ride in the event.

If I still lived in Maine, I would absolutely be participating in this event as a rider or volunteer. Perhaps this will become an annual event, and I can make it back to ride – after all, fall foliage season in western Maine is a great time be outside.

You can also learn about Patrick Dempsey’s passion for cycling in this video by Specialized, a sponsor of the Dempsey Challenge: