Cancer patients need rides

For some cancer patients, getting to medical appointments is tough.

They either can't physically get back and forth without help or can't afford transportation because the cancer care is digging into their budget.

An American Cancer Society program provides free rides in Nebraska and Iowa but could use more volunteer drivers.

Demand for rides has increased partly because of the tight economy, said Mike Lefler, spokesman for the Cancer Society in Nebraska.

Cancer patients or family members have lost jobs in some cases, making it even tougher to afford transportation.

In the 12-month period ending Aug. 31, the Nebraska program provided 1,414 round-trip rides, up from 879 the year before.

Demand for rides also has increased in Iowa. A specific count of rides was not available.

Many of the volunteer drivers in Iowa are retired and go away for the winter, which means volunteers are needed to cover for them, said Teri Elsbury of the Cancer Society in Iowa.

She said drivers are particularly needed in the Council Bluffs area.

Lefler said some volunteers drive patients a couple of times per week, sometimes just once a month, depending on the need of the patient.

Some volunteers have been driving the same patient for at least a year. Volunteers and patients sometimes develop strong bonds, with patients sharing the ups and downs of their treatment, he said.

“It can be a great release for the patient,'' he said.

Volunteers must be at least 21, have their own vehicle, a clean driving record and valid insurance.

Mileage reimbursements are available to volunteer drivers in Nebraska. In Iowa, grant money is available to help volunteers pay for gas if they qualify.

People interested in becoming a driver in Nebraska or Iowa can call 800-227-2345. Patients who need rides can call that same number.

Contact the writer:

444-1122, michael.oconnor@owh.com

« Metro/Region

Share