The Dempsey Challenge is back this week in Lewiston and is celebrating its 16th year.

Founded by actor and philanthropist Patrick Dempsey in 2009, the Dempsey Challenge has raised over $18 million, with 100% of all proceeds going directly to client care.

The three-day event starts on Thursday, Sept. 19 with an open house of the Dempsey Center and a Champion of Hopes dinner the following day honoring cancer survivors and celebrating the top fundraisers this year. 
The top fundraising awards will be recognized at Simard-Payne Memorial Park that day.

Saturday will feature events at the same location in which individuals can take part in a 5K run or walk or bike up to 65 miles. There will also be a new duathlon, in which participants run 4.5 miles and ride 21.5 miles to the finish line.

Participants of all ages and abilities can register for the event.

The Dempsey Challenge looks to make life better for people impacted by cancer, providing comfort and compassion for cancer patients, their loved ones and survivors.

The organization has currently fundraised more than $1.3 million to date, with a goal of raising $2 million. Last year, the challenge raised more than $1.8 million.

Visit the Dempsey Challenge’s website for more information.