THE need for cancer treatment doesn’t vanish just because the holiday season has arrived, and the Volunteer Cancer Drivers Society (VCDS) will be answering the call almost every day throughout the period.

“By the end of 2023, we will have provided more than 31,000 rides to clinics all over Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, and we’ll continue to do so right into the New Year,” says Bob Smith, President of VCDS. “We anticipate operating every day except Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, primarily because most treatment centres will be closed or offer minimal service those days. We answer the call virtually year-round and our 420 drivers do it voluntarily.

“Almost everyone knows someone who’s battled cancer. They may have a friend or family member who’s had to get regular treatments.  Sometimes, a driver may have had cancer themselves. No one understands better the need to give a helping hand to others.

“The need for drivers is forecast to increase 25 per cent in 2024 and we continue to welcome volunteer drivers with cars interested in helping. We need drivers in all the Greater Vancouver and Fraser Health communities. The patients we serve appreciate the personal attention they get, and most of our drivers will tell you they get as much out of the experience as the people they’re driving.  It’s truly rewarding.”

Anyone wishing to become a volunteer driver can find more information at www.volunteercancerdrivers.ca.