Why We Relay - Supporting Cancer Patients with Transportation Services
At Relay For Life Wexford, what drives us is bringing hope and support to those impacted by cancer. One way we do this is by raising funds to help the Irish Cancer Society's Transport Service, a critical resource for cancer patients who need a little extra help getting to their chemotherapy appointments.
What is the Transport Service?
The Transport Service is a volunteer-based program that provides rides for cancer patients to and from their hospital appointments. With over 1,200 volunteer drivers across Ireland, this service eases the burden of travel for those undergoing treatment. Whether it's due to health, distance, or simply not having someone to drive them, this service makes a significant difference in the lives of patients.
How Does it Work?
The Transport Service operates in conjunction with hospitals that are part of the programme. If you're a cancer patient who needs assistance with transportation to chemotherapy, you can ask your hospital social worker or nurse if your hospital is part of the programme. If it is, they can help you get a referral to use the Transport Service.
Why It's Important?
Dealing with cancer is challenging enough without the added stress of figuring out transportation to life-saving treatments. By providing this service, the Irish Cancer Society ensures that transportation isn't a barrier to care. It’s a testament to the kindness and generosity of volunteers who dedicate their time to make sure patients can focus on their health and recovery.
Transport Service Stats (latest available figures)
The impact of the Transport Service in 2022 is remarkable. With the support of 1,045 volunteer drivers, the Irish Cancer Society completed 21,349 journeys for cancer patients across Ireland. This service helped 2,152 patients reach their hospital chemotherapy treatments, providing invaluable support during a challenging time.
How You Can Help?
Relay For Life Wexford is proud to support this invaluable service through our fundraising efforts. Every euro we raise goes toward programmes like the Transport Service, ensuring that patients receive the support they need. If you'd like to get involved, whether it's through participating in our events, donating, or volunteering, we'd love to hear from you.
Need To Avail of the Service?
If you or someone you know needs transportation to chemotherapy appointments and is being treated at a participating hospital, reach out to the Transport Service team at (01) 231 0522. They're ready to assist and answer any questions you may have.
This is why we Relay, together, we're making a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer thanks to the incredible services provided by the Irish Cancer Society.
Read more on the transportation services available here:
Participating Hospitals:
Apply to be a volunteer driver:
https://www.cancer.ie/ways-to-help/volunteer/volunteer-driver
