February 9, 2007 – Cancer patients receiving treatment at a nearby hospital or medical facility can get free transportation to and from their treatment site. The American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery program is a free service for cancer patients who lack transportation.

“Getting a ride is a problem for some cancer patients,” said Barb Barsch, volunteer coordinator of the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery program in Mahoning and Trumbull Counties.

“Many need daily or weekly treatment, often over the course of several months. They may not have a vehicle, or they are simply too ill to drive,” she said.

Other patients may not have friends or relatives in the area who can accommodate their needs because they work and are unable to get a leave of absence. However, the volunteer Road to Recovery drivers donate their time and the use of their personal vehicle to transport cancer patients.

Being diagnosed with cancer and having to get treatment is a major burden to overcome. Worrying about how to get to treatment can compound the frustration if a person is without transportation.

Road to Recovery is the core of the American Cancer Society mission – people helping people to overcome cancer. Road to Recovery volunteers provide an essential service because even the greatest medical advance is useless if patients can’t get to and from treatment.

“Road to Recovery volunteers make the difference in people’s lives, just by driving,” Barsch said. “Just being there to help someone in need is a wonderful service for the patient and fulfilling for the driver.”

The American Cancer Society is currently seeking volunteer drivers who are willing to donate time plus their vehicle to assist those who lack a ride for cancer treatment.

Those interested need to attend a two-hour training at the American Cancer Society. A current valid Ohio driver’s license, a good driving record and proof of adequate auto insurance is necessary.

The goal and mission of the American Cancer Society is to reduce cancer incidence and mortality rates. Their four areas of concentration are cancer research, education, advocacy and services to cancer patients.

Cancer patients who need a ride to and from treatment, or those interested in becoming a volunteer driver, should call the American Cancer Society toll free at 1-800-ACS-2345.