Donald Bates | Why I Drive

Donald’s journey with the Volunteer Cancer Drivers Society began through a simple connection. A friend he met while volunteering in the healthcare system introduced him to VCDS. What resonated right away was the opportunity to genuinely help people, while also bringing purpose and structure to his own life.

He started driving out of North Vancouver in December 2021. After stepping away due to illness, Donald returned, first as an Orientation Driver and now back on the road with patients. In his words, he is very happy to be back.

Donald now volunteers once or twice a week, helping ease what can be a stressful day for patients by taking care of transportation, eliminating parking concerns, and giving family members one less thing to worry about.

But for him, it is the connection that matters most.

“Each drive is fulfilling. Everyone is very warm and grateful. If you see them frequently, you become someone they trust.”

That sense of trust is something Donald builds quietly, one ride at a time.

Outside of volunteering, he enjoys hiking, golfing, reading history, and spending time with his wife’s family.

For anyone thinking about volunteering, his message is simple:

“I would encourage them to do it because the rewards can’t be measured.”

Thank you, Donald, for your dedication, compassion, and for making such a meaningful difference in the lives of those you serve.