For those battling cancer, living in a rural area such as Creston can be a huge hurdle for access to life-saving treatment.
The Canadian Cancer Society aims to help address this problem through Wheels of Hope.
The free program connects people who need transportation for cancer-related appointments with volunteer drivers. And thanks to funding from the B.C. government, Wheels of Hope is expanding to the Kootenays.
“It is such an important service because we know that if people can't find a ride to their treatment, they don't go,” said Mark Kahan, volunteer recruitment, Wheels of Hope. “And that always breaks my heart. We are so pleased to take a little stress off someone while they may be going through an incredibly difficult time in their life.”
Recruitment is now underway for trips from the Creston Valley (and surrounding area) to Cranbrook. Wheels of Hope operates from Monday to Friday during daytime hours, with flexibility in time commitment of about three or four days per month. At this time, at least eight volunteers are needed.
Volunteers are required to have a clean driving abstract, a criminal record check, and use their own vehicles. Gas mileage reimbursement and a tax receipt will be provided.
“I myself started out as a volunteer driver, and I just loved that I was helping out people in my own community and literally making a difference in someone's life,” said Kahan. “I was humbled by how most people are just so incredibly grateful for a stranger driving them. The appreciation really is felt.”
Wheels of Hope aims to reduce stress not only for cancer patients but for their family members too. Radiation treatments can sometimes be needed daily for up to six weeks, and taking that much time off work to shuttle back and forth can be a huge burden.
“I do know from talking to people over the years that our clients tell us that they don't know what they would have done without this program,” said Kahan.
And of course, the volunteer experience comes with magic of its own.
“Our volunteers get to meet so many interesting people from all walks of life,” Kahan said. “Some people don't want to talk about cancer. They’d rather talk about the Canucks game, or the weather, or just share stories of their own lives. Those conversations can be really, really special.”
To sign up with Wheels of Hope, please visit volunteercancer.ca. For more information, email volunteer@cancer.ca or call 1-888-939-3333.
