CARIBOU, Maine — An integral part of treating cancer successfully is making sure patients receive their treatments, but many find making transportation arrangements is a challenge. In the face of an urgent need for volunteer drivers locally, three organizations have joined together in a recruitment effort.
The American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery program is in critical need of volunteers from the area to drive local cancer patients to and from their chemotherapy and/or radiation appointments. The ACS, in partnership with Cary Medical Center, will host a training session for prospective drivers from 10-11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 27, 2016, at the medical center’s business office conference room, located at 24 Sweden St., Caribou.
McDonald’s of Caribou has also joined in the effort. The store’s owner/operators, Daryl and Heidi Abbotoni, have brought attention to the community’s need for Road to Recovery drivers by placing fliers and other informational materials throughout the restaurant, visible to all who enter.
“Nothing can prepare you for hearing that someone you love has cancer,” said Heidi Abbotoni. “When my mom was going through each of her journeys, the one thing that we realized was how difficult it was for some patients to find enough resources to help them; that is why we have offered to support this very important recruitment effort.
“No patient or family should have to make the life-threatening decision on whether to forego treatment based on transportation concerns,” Abbotoni said.
Bethany Zell, project director for Pink Aroostook at Cary Medical Center and Aroostook Coordinator for the ACS Reach to Recovery program, has also been a faithful advocate for new drivers to assist with needs here in Aroostook.
“I have seen first-hand how transportation costs truly impede the treatment process for people in Aroostook County who have a cancer diagnosis,” Zell said. “Geographically, Aroostook County is huge and most people have to drive significant distances to treatments and appointments. Transportation costs are often a source of major financial and emotional stress for patients who already have so many things to worry about.
“Road to Recovery is a resource that needs to flourish and grow but for that to happen, we need more volunteer drivers.” said Zell.
Volunteers must have a valid driver’s license, a safe and reliable vehicle and proof of automobile insurance. Drivers must be 18-85 years of age and have a good driving history. They arrange their own schedules and can commit as many or as few hours a week or month as their schedule allows. The American Cancer Society provides free training to drivers and conducts criminal background and driving record checks. Treatment appointments take place weekdays, primarily during business hours.
To register for the information session or to learn more, contact Elisa Madore, program manager, mission delivery at 462-6307 or email elisa.madore@cancer.org.
