Society seeks cancer drivers

Palm Coast Observer
Neighbors

The American Cancer Society helps radiation and chemotherapy patients get to and from their treatments.

Throughout March, the American Cancer Society of Flagler recorded 57 “actual transports” of cancer patients from their homes to Florida Hospital Flagler for radiation/chemotherapy sessions, according to Lead Driver/Coordinator Barbara Royere.

Royere is one of 11 volunteers, and more are needed, she said.

These are people that cannot get or afford other transportation, she said, and would otherwise miss their treatments.

“I’m a cancer survivor,” Royere said. Her mother also had cancer, as did two of her uncles, an aunt and a sister. “It’s all around me,” she said. “There’s not a person that you can talk to that hasn’t been touched by it. It’s an impossible disease.”

Royere moved in 2004 to Florida, to be her father’s primary caregiver after he had fallen ill. She soon became involved with the Food Pantry of Bunnell. Then she started volunteering at medical and rehab clinics, and in 2008 joined Meals on Wheels. Then she joined the Cancer Society.

“I’m fortunate that I overcame (the disease), and I find it very satisfying and gratifying (to help those still struggling),” she said. “I needed to help somehow.”

Cancer Society drivers must attend a one-hour training program, pass a background check and have a clean, working vehicle. As of now, Royere said, most drivers are older than 50.

“They’re just normal people that need a ride,” she said. “You can still do your mahjong on Monday, but you can drive on Tuesday … Do something!”

To volunteer, call The American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

EVENTS TO BENEFIT ACS

God’s Striders Fundraiser — 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, April 12, at Bob Evans, 100 Garden St. S. Present a flier or mention you read about the Relay for Life fundraiser in The Observer, and 15% of your bill will be donated to the God’s Striders team for American Cancer Society Flagler County Relay for Life.

Relay for Life Team Captain Meeting — 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 14, at the Flagler County Association of Realtors, 4101 E. State Road 100. Anyone interested in joining or leading a new team is welcome.

Acoustic Jam Against Cancer — 2-8 p.m. Sunday, April 17, at McCharacters, 215 St. Joe Plaza Drive.