Photo: Alvis Taurēns | Unsplash
Larry Coleman, a volunteer driver and Director at Large for Volunteer Cancer Drivers Society (VCDS) has reached a driving milestone having completed 1,000 patient rides. VCDS is a non-profit organization providing complimentary transportation in British Columbia for Lower Mainland residents battling cancer. “Some trips are filled with tears, but I always try to get a smile or laugh to brighten their day,” said Coleman. “The patients are so very thankful for the rides. It relieves them of the stress of how they will make it to and from their appointments.” George McAffer, Executive Vice President and Director of Driver Operations for VCDS, said the not-for-profit organization was founded by Garth Pinton, George Garrett and John MacInnes following the Canadian Cancer Society’s BC and Yukon decision to end their ride service in 2015. Since 2016 VCDS has provided 80,000 patient trips driven over 2.3 million km, contributing almost 140,000 volunteer hours. “Funding our service that is growing by about 20% annually, is a challenge,” shared McAffer. The organization is in particular need of additional volunteer drivers in Vancouver, Richmond and Burnaby. Coleman encourages drivers to come volunteer with the VCDS and discover how rewarding the experience is.
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