Betcha Didn't Know

Pine Tree Hospice invites community members to attend upcoming installments of "Betcha Didn't Know," a free monthly speaker series held on the third Wednesday of each month at 10:00 a.m. at Center Theatre. The next three presentations will take place on July 15, August 19, and September 16.

Pine Tree Hospice is committed to providing educational opportunities that inform, support, and strengthen our community. The "Betcha Didn't Know" series offers attendees the opportunity to learn about a wide range of topics while connecting with local experts and neighbors. The series is free, open to the public, and requires no registration.

Dementia Basics - July 15, 10 am @ Center Theatre

On July 15, Cheryl Crabtree will present "Dementia Basics." Guests are invited to learn about the fundamentals of dementia, common misconceptions, and ways to better support caregivers and loved ones living with dementia. Crabtree, retired Volunteer Coordinator for Pine Tree Hospice, says she is passionate about improving support for caregivers.

"Caregiver emotional stress impacts health," said Crabtree. "There are basic ideas that can make a difference for caregivers and those who support them."

As Volunteer Coordinator, Crabtree helped create Pine Tree Hospice's "Knowledge Is Power" series. She was also a trained presenter for Savvy Caregiver through Eastern Area Agency on Aging. Her educational background includes a Master of Science in Human Relations, with a focus on aging and caregiver challenges.

Capturing Life Stories - August 19, 10 am @ Center Theatre

On August 19, Cavenaugh Kelly, Ph.D., MS, OTR/L, occupational therapist and associate professor at Husson University, will present "Capturing Life Stories."

"I have always been passionate about reading, writing, and listening to stories," said Kelly. "I was a newspaper journalist for ten years, writing numerous stories about local individuals, before becoming a home health occupational therapist. As an OT, working primarily in Piscataquis County for more than ten years, I have always emphasized understanding each patient's story as the foundation for treatment planning."

Participants will learn about the role of life stories at the end of life, how to interview someone about their experiences, and techniques for summarizing and writing meaningful life stories. Whether you are interested in writing your own story or interviewing a loved one or neighbor, Kelly will offer practical tools for capturing and preserving life stories. Participants are encouraged to bring a notebook and pen.

Medical Miracles - September 16, 10 am @ Center Theatre

On September 16, Chaplain William Sheppard, a retired emergency medicine physician assistant, commissioned pastor, and ordained minister, will present "Medical Miracles." Drawing from decades of experience in emergency medicine and his personal faith, Sheppard will share remarkable real-life events and explore the meaning, hope, and wonder they inspire.

"My faith gives me passion for this subject," said Sheppard.

 

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