By Sherry Lavoie
We all have had someone in our lives impacted by cancer. It is far reaching for too many families and the pain is shared, as well as the healing. Along with patients, caregivers and families need support too. The Dempsey Center provides so much to so many in our communities. Patrick Dempsey started the Center in 2008 and in 2009 the Dempsey Challenge became its primary fundraiser. The Challenge has raised over $13million to provide free services for all who come through the center’s doors.
After I heard of some friends participating the first year, I knew I wanted to help and support families fighting cancer and it seemed like a great way to do it. As always, my sidekick and BFF Gina came along. We never knew at that time, that a few years later, the center would be helping her own family when her husband started his battle with multiple myeloma. She has only missed 1 year, due to the fact that her son was getting married that day. So, I walked the 10K for both of us, prior to going to the wedding and brought along my coworker and cancer survivor, Lori. It was an emotional and encouraging event for her that first time. She has joined us ever since.
We have proudly raised over $11k together for the center over the years.
This year will be very different, due to COVID and it having to become a virtual event. We will miss the crowds, conversations, hope and energy that the Challenge brings that day. However, COVID won’t stop this Coworker’s for a Cause trio from supporting the Center. We have mapped out a 10K route from our Lewiston shop and will still do our part to support our community families fighting the fight against cancer. We will laugh, sweat a little, celebrate life and look forward to next year.
For more information on how you can help the center or could use some help from them, please check out their website….
