In Memory of Tessa Lee McCue
Tessa Lee McCue was born and raised in Hampden, Maine. She was a dedicated mother, daughter, sister, and friend whose life reflected both exceptional talent and profound resilience.
Diagnosed with a heart condition at the age of four, Tessa nonetheless pursued figure skating with determination and discipline. By age nine, she had earned two gold medals at the New England Figure Skating Championship, and by twelve she was within one qualifying level of the Junior Olympic Team before an injury ended her competitive trajectory. Tessa later trained with Olympic figure skating coaches Barbara Kossowska and Alexei Ulanov and received numerous awards and medals at the Junior and Senior Ladies levels.
At sixteen, Tessa was prescribed an ADHD medication that led to a substance use disorder, a challenge that would shape the remainder of her life. Like many individuals facing similar circumstances, she struggled with addiction despite persistent efforts to achieve recovery and the support of multiple treatment interventions. Tessa died of a fentanyl-related overdose in November 2022 at the age of 37.
In response to this loss, Tessa’s family and community sought to transform grief into meaningful action. Tessa’s House was established as a residential recovery program for women with substance use disorders, grounded in compassion, dignity, and evidence-informed care. Situated on eleven secluded acres in Washington, Maine, Tessa’s House offers a calm, structured environment in which women can begin their recovery journey.
The program includes a 30-day rehabilitation stay, with plans to integrate work opportunities, nature-based programming, and family therapy as the program grows. Tessa’s House is committed to providing a safe, supportive setting where women can pursue sobriety, strengthen their recovery skills, and build sustainable, long-term wellness.
Tessa is remembered for her distinctive presence, sense of style, and dedication to her daughter. Her story underscores the urgency of accessible, high-quality treatment and the belief that every person deserves a chance at recovery. Tessa’s House exists in her memory as a place of hope, healing, and renewed possibility.
