LEWISTON — The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing will host a special evening with author-illustrator Sally Loughridge, a retired clinical child psychologist, from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9.

Loughridge will explore common emotional reactions of healthy children during a sibling’s life-threatening illness.

At 4 p.m., Loughridge will read from her book, “Daniel and His Starry Night Blanket: A Story of Illness and Sibling Love.”

The book tells the tale of a healthy young boy whose sister is diagnosed with cancer, and, from his perspective, gets far too much of the family’s attention. The story highlights Daniel’s intense feelings around his sister Kate’s illness and treatment — loneliness, sadness, worry, guilt and envy — and offers ways his parents reassure and comfort him. The story hour is for children ages 4 and older and their parents/guardians. Free child care and a light dinner for children will be provided.

At 5 p.m., there will be a “Hey Don’t Forget About Me!” discussion.

Loughridge will explore the challenges parents face juggling the needs of both their ill and healthy children. She will describe essential elements parents need to provide for their children during this difficult balancing act, such as structure, connection, predictability and honesty, and offer strategies in each area. This portion of the evening is geared toward parents, extended family, caregivers and pediatric professionals.

Everyone is welcome. FMI: 207-795-8250, www.dempseycenter.org.