WILMINGTON — As an American Cancer Society volunteer, you can honor a survivor or a loved one lost to cancer while joining the fight to end the disease. The American Cancer Society’s Road To Recovery program offers flexible scheduling and a chance to give back while literally helping to save lives.
An estimated 65,010 Ohio residents will learn they have cancer this year and getting to their scheduled treatment will be their greatest concern. To help patients get to the critical care they need without additional stress, the American Cancer Society Road To Recovery program can help provide free transportation to and from treatment for people who have cancer and who do not have a ride or are unable to drive themselves.
Many cancer patients don’t own a vehicle, can’t afford the extra gasoline, or don’t have access to public transportation. Some patients may be elderly and unable to drive, too ill to drive, or have no family members or friends who are able to provide regular assistance with transportation three or four hours per week.
The Road To Recovery program provides transportation options for patients in dire situations and currently is in need of volunteer drivers in Clinton and Highland counties. Typically drivers will transport individuals within the community, however we do occasionally receive requests for trips to Columbus and Cincinnati.
Volunteer drivers donate their time and the use of their cars so patients can receive the lifesaving treatments they need, however are able to determine which rides they take. Drivers also provide encouragement and support.
To volunteer, you must have a valid driver’s license, a safe and reliable vehicle, and proof of automobile insurance. Drivers must be 18 years of age or older and have a good driving history. They arrange their own schedules and can commit as many or as few hours as their schedule allows. The American Cancer Society provides free training to drivers and conducts criminal background and driving record checks.
The most valuable skills you can bring to any volunteer effort are compassion, an open mind, a willingness to do whatever is needed, and a positive attitude. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people. It also strengthens your ties to the community, exposes you to people with common interests, and provides a sense of purpose.
Those interested learning more about the Road to Recovery program or interest in sharing the opportunity within the community you can contact Heather Robison at 404-327-6583 or email [email protected]
