Patrick Dempsey Turns Personal Cancer Journey Into Mission to Improve Care

The actor is using his platform to advocate for better cancer screening and support services.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 4:06pm

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Actor Patrick Dempsey's personal experience with his mother's battle with ovarian cancer has shaped his mission to improve cancer care and support. He founded the Dempsey Center in his hometown of Lewiston, Maine in 2008 to provide resources and services for cancer patients and their families. Dempsey is also advocating for more accessible cancer screenings, like the minimally-invasive colorectal cancer blood test he recently took. As he approaches 60, Dempsey is also focusing on his own health through diet, exercise, and mindfulness practices.

Why it matters

Dempsey's efforts to improve cancer care and support highlight the significant gaps that still exist, even for high-profile individuals. His personal story and platform can help raise awareness and drive change to ensure all cancer patients and their families have access to the resources and care they need.

The details

After his mother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 1997, Dempsey saw firsthand the lack of supportive care available for cancer patients. This inspired him to found the Dempsey Center in 2008, which provides free services and resources for those impacted by cancer. Dempsey is also advocating for more accessible cancer screenings, like the colorectal cancer blood test he recently took, to help with early detection. As he approaches 60, Dempsey is focusing on his own health through diet, exercise, and mindfulness practices.

  • Dempsey's mother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 1997.
  • Dempsey founded the Dempsey Center in 2008.
  • Dempsey's mother passed away in 2014 after 12 recurrences of her cancer.
  • Dempsey recently took a colorectal cancer screening blood test.
  • Dempsey turned 60 in January.

The players

Patrick Dempsey

An actor known for his roles in shows like Grey's Anatomy and films like Memory of a Killer, who is using his platform to advocate for improved cancer care and support services.

Dempsey Center

A non-profit organization founded by Patrick Dempsey in his hometown of Lewiston, Maine in 2008 to provide free resources and services for cancer patients and their families.

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What they’re saying

“I wanted to be able to do something more for cancer patients and their families. There was very little supportive care out there. You know, once you were released after your [cancer] treatment, you were on your own. And there was a real gap, and that's how it started. We've been building out the program from there.”

— Patrick Dempsey, Actor

“Getting people through the door [for colorectal cancer screening] is very hard. The thought of getting a colonoscopy...people have to take time off for it. You need somebody to look out for you during that process. You've got the preparation ahead of time...it's a pain in the ass, literally. These barriers stop people. And then there are others who have the thought, 'Well, what if I have it?' and might be in denial.”

— Patrick Dempsey, Actor

What’s next

Dempsey plans to continue advocating for improved cancer screening options and support services, using his platform to raise awareness and drive change in the healthcare system.

The takeaway

Dempsey's personal journey with his mother's cancer diagnosis and the gaps in care he witnessed have inspired him to dedicate his time and resources to improving the cancer care experience for patients and their families. His efforts highlight the importance of accessible screening, comprehensive support services, and breaking down the stigma and barriers that prevent people from seeking early detection.