Volunteers steer patients on path to treatment

The American Cancer Society works to not only raise awareness and funding for their cause but to help ease the inconveniences and strife of cancer patients.

One of these efforts is with their Program, which helps provide much-needed transport, support and companionship for patients going to their various doctors appointments.

Shimeka Chretien-Bass, program manager of Mission Delivery-Louisiana, has been in the American Cancer Society organization for five years. “My favorite part of working for the American Cancer Society is knowing that every day the work that I do is making a different in the lives of those affected by cancer and is helping to save lives,” Chretien-Bass said.

Road to Recovery is one program that makes a much bigger difference than it might seem on the surface. “Road to Recovery is an American Cancer Society program designed to ensure that cancer patients have transportation to and from medical facilities for treatments,” Chretien-Bass said. “Volunteer drivers provide patients with a ride in order to keep them on their regular treatment schedule.”

Ride requests vary, sometimes as many as 20 a week. “We currently have about 10 active driving volunteers that assist us with the program with varying availabilities,” Chretien-Bass said. “We are in desperate need of more drivers to be able to provide this service to more patients in need of transportation assistance.”

Amy Wilson is one such volunteer driver. Wilson, who is a wife and mother and also works part time at a flower shop, loves that her part-time job gives her the space to volunteer and live out her heart’s passions. “The purpose of this program is to get cancer patients back and forth from their doctor’s appointments,” Wilson said. “I got involved driving about three years ago after the business I worked for closed. I was looking for a flexible way to volunteer my time and came across an article in the paper asking for volunteers for the program. Knowing nothing about it, I decided to go to a training session to find out what all was required. It seemed tailor-made for me.”

Wilson has enjoyed her volunteer hours and the flexibility it provides. “The way Road to Recovery is set up, it’s very easy to give as much or as little time as you have,” Wilson said. “Some appointments are just a few minutes, while some take as much as half a day. You can drive occasionally or on a regular basis as I do.”

Battling cancer can be a scary and lonely time in someone’s life. Not only does Road to Recovery provide a tangible need of transportation to the doctor’s office, it also provides encouragement and companionship for the patient, which is sometimes an even greater need.

For Wilson, it’s simply all about the people. “I’ve met some of the most wonderful, interesting people that are truly so appreciative not to have to worry about their transportation needs,” Wilson said. “One patient, who I began driving three years ago on a regular basis to his treatment appointments, is in remission now. I’ve driven him to several followup appointments, and he is doing great.

What a gift it was to be the first person he told the good news to!

“I encourage anyone who has the time to consider being a driver. It feels great to help out, and I’ve met some great people.”

Wilson said enjoyed being a part of something bigger than herself. “I loved being a part of a group that really made a difference,” Wilson said. “Volunteering became part of my routine. I definitely get more back than what I give!” Chretien-Bass said.any time offered is invaluable. “We need individuals who many have as little as a few hours a month to help patients get the lifesaving treatment they need,” she said.

Interested volunteers must be between the ages of 18-85, have a current and valid driver’s license, proof of insurance for their vehicle and a desire to help. Potential volunteers can contact the office at 1-800-227-2345. If one doesn’t have the time to volunteer themselves but wants to help financially, monetary donations or fundraising information can be arranged at the same number.

–Betsy St. Amant