Betcha Didn't Know
Betcha Didn't Know is a free monthly speaker series held on the third Wednesday of each month at 10:00 a.m. at Center Theatre. The series is free, open to the public, and requires no registration.
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.
Setting and Maintaining Healthy Boundaries While Caregiving – October 21, 10 am @ Center Theatre
On October 21, Deb Drew will present "Setting and Maintaining Healthy Boundaries While Caregiving." Guests are invited to explore why healthy boundaries matter in caregiving relationships, identify boundaries to set and maintain, and learn how clear boundaries support the wellbeing of everyone in a relationship.
“Caregiving relationships are complex and fraught with feelings,” said Drew. “We are often tempted to try to do more than we have the capacity for, compromising our own wellbeing. We feel guilty when we do not think we are doing enough. Learning that it is not only OK to set and maintain boundaries, but, in fact, is essential to both the wellbeing of the caregiver and those being cared for.”
Drew has been a volunteer for Pine Tree Hospice since 2008, her way of coping with the sudden death of her nephew when he was 18. In that role she has served as consultant, clinical supervisor, and trainer. She currently serves as a member of the Board of Directors. Drew is a school counselor, clinical mental health counselor, and counselor educator. She maintains a private practice providing clinical supervision, consultation, and coaching.
Reversing Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Syndrome – November 18, 10 am @ Center Theatre
On November 18, Kevin Chasse DC—a metabolic health specialist, certified primal health coach, and chiropractic physician—will present "Reversing Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Syndrome."
Chasse said that he is passionate about this subject because, “there's an epidemic of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease in this country and around the world. That's the bad news. The good news is that we have the knowledge and power to help those interested to prevent and reverse these conditions.”
Participants will learn about metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance, their connection to chronic illnesses (like pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, obesity, chronic fatigue syndrome, heart disease, depression, anxiety, polycystic ovarian syndrome-PCOS, and cancer), and practical strategies for managing and potentially reversing these conditions to improve overall health.
Wishes and Living Wills – December 16, 10 am @ Center Theatre
On December 16, Pine Tree Hospice Volunteers will present “Wishes and Living Wills.” Talking about end-of-life wishes isn't always easy, but having those conversations is one of the greatest gifts we can give the people we love. Pine Tree Hospice's “Wishes and Living Wills” Workshop helps participants begin tough discussions with confidence.
Attendees will learn about advance directives, healthcare and financial powers of attorney, funeral planning, life-sustaining treatment options, and practical ways to communicate their wishes with family members. Participants also receive guidance in completing the Five Wishes advance directive and organizing important personal information.
Maine Highlands Death Cafe
Talking about death won’t kill you. Pine Tree Hospice hosts a monthly Death Café from 1–3 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month at the Guilford Memorial Library.
A Death Café is an open, welcoming gathering where people come together to share cake, drink coffee, and talk about death. The goal is simple: to increase awareness of death so that participants can make the most of their finite lives. There is no set agenda, no objectives, and no intent to provide grief support—just honest, thoughtful conversation in a comfortable setting. For more information, email info@pinetreehospice.org.