The American Cancer Society’s “Road to Recovery” rideshare program is seeking volunteers.
While COVID-19 slowed and sometimes stopped volunteer efforts, cancer did not pause over the last two and a half years.
David Yuschak of Plano volunteered for “Road to Recovery” for two years before the pandemic; he told CBS News that he was back to work volunteering.
“It was a lifeline for them,” Yuschak said of the rideshare program’s significance for cancer patients. He added, “The humblest, most gracious people are on that ride with you.”
“Road to Recovery” works with volunteers they vet as drivers to help patients get back and forth to treatments and appointments. As “Road to Recovery” relaunches, it is searching for volunteers who have compassion and time and want to make a difference in the lives of those living with cancer.
“You know, some 140,000 Texans are going to learn they have cancer this year,” says Jeff Fehlis, Executive Vice President of the American Cancer Society. “Treatment alone is scary; it’s painful, it’s expensive, but even the best doctors and medicine really can’t help if a patient can’t get to treatment.”
Volunteers must be between the ages of 18 and 84, have a valid driver’s license and car insurance, be able to pass a background check and be fully vaccinated.
“In 2019, we provided over 10,000 rides to treatment here in North Texas,” said Fehlis. “The need is there. There are a lot of folks out there who are just beginning or in the midst of a cancer journey who need that ride to treatment. Help us do that.”
A two-time cancer survivor, Yuschak knows firsthand how much help friends and family can be in a battle like this. His closeness with his patients keeps Yuschak going and enables him to be a helpful ally.
It “makes a big difference for the cancer patient,” said Yuschak. It “makes a big difference in you. Take the chance. What you’re going to find is the reward is greater than what you ever thought. It’s not just a ride anymore.”
People interested in volunteering with “Road to Recovery” were encouraged to contact the American Cancer Society for more information.