Volunteer drivers needed to transport cancer patients

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Getting to and from medical treatments is one of the greatest concerns cancer patients face. To ensure patients get to those much-needed treatments, the American Cancer Society provides free rides through its Road To Recovery program.

The cancer society is currently looking for volunteer drivers in Champaign County so that all patients have transportation when they need it. An estimated 214 Champaign County residents will learn that they have cancer this year; however, getting to their scheduled treatment may be a challenge.

“One cancer patient requiring radiation therapy could need anywhere from 20 to 30 trips to treatment in six weeks,” said American Cancer Society Program Manager Marybeth Torsell. “A patient receiving chemotherapy might report for treatment weekly for up to a year. In many cases, a patient is driven to hospitals or clinics by relatives or friends, but even these patients must occasionally seek alternative transportation. That’s where the Road To Recovery program comes in.

“The program not only helps patients, but is also rewarding for the volunteer. Several of our drivers have volunteered for a number of years,” she added.

A training for new drivers will be held from 11 a.m. to noon Thursday, Jan. 7, 2016, at the Champaign County Library. Volunteer drivers must have a reliable vehicle, a valid driver’s license, proof of auto insurance and a good driving record.

For more information about the Road To Recovery program or to volunteer, call 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit cancer.org. Register for the training by calling Torsell at 888-227-6446 extension 5101 or email at [email protected].

Submitted Story

Submitted by the American Cancer Society.

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