October kicks off Breast Cancer Awareness month and the Girls Varsity soccer team raised $1,856 during their annual Breast cancer awareness game on Oct. 4. They donated it all to the Dempsey Center, a wonderful local charity that offers free counseling, therapies, wellness, and so much more to those impacted by cancer. 

The team raffled off two VIP Celtics tickets during the Oct. 4 game that were generously donated by one of the senior player parents’ employers, Nike, Inc., Boston. The company’s contribution then matched the team’s fundraising efforts. 

This collaboration brought Heather Plati, senior director of development to a recent soccer practice to meet the players and to thank them for their efforts. Plati began her conversation to the team by explaining in more detail the myriad of programs offered including Reiki healing, yoga classes, stress reduction workshops, family nights and group counseling to name a few. 

Plati shared her gratitude stating, “every dollar you earn doing the sport you love is helping your community.” 

The Dempsey challenge is also a popular and great way to get involved. A recent Dempsey challenge had participants from 33 states and 8 countries. The challenge is offered virtually and in person. 

According to the center’s media page, The Dempsey Center was founded in 2008 by none other than actor and Maine native Patrick Dempsey with the mission to help make life better for people impacted by cancer. Patrick’s mother Amanda was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 1997. After experiencing her journey, and inspired by Amanda’s passion for helping others, Patrick created a space where those impacted by cancer could find relief, comfort, resources, and support—all at no cost. 

Dempsey, born in Lewiston, Maine, is best known for his role as neurosurgeon Derek Shepherd (“McDreamy”) in Grey’s Anatomy. Although Dempsey himself did not attend this game, he will be super proud. The team’s community effort brought amazing awareness to the community, in addition, several players have or plan to take part in future events for the center. 

In the words of one fan, “Way to go, girls, you crushed it. The positivity alone of this group captured it all.”