It’s a sad reality that some cancer patients don’t have a driver to get them to regional cancer centres.
The Canadian Cancer Society’s Wheels of Hope program helps people with cancer get to treatment appointments.
“We want to make sure that anyone going through cancer has a ride but we need volunteers to keep the wheels turning, so to speak,” said volunteer recruiter Mark Kahan.
Kahan said the program needs volunteer drivers across the province and the country.
“It’s hard to get the word out to smaller communities but there are people that are living with cancer in these smaller communities and if we have a volunteer driver, we can make sure we get them to their appointments.”
Kahan said the positions are flexible and volunteering just two or three weekdays a month can make a big impact during what can be one of the most difficult periods of someone’s life. Retirees and others with spare time are encouraged to volunteer.
Kahan said he started as a volunteer driver and was humbled by how grateful people were for the support.
He said great conversations and friendships are also part of the experience.
The Canadian Cancer Society said volunteer drivers can receive reimbursement for eligible expenses associated with their driving.
More information about Wheels of Hope and volunteer opportunities is available at volunteercancer.ca.
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