patient stories
Behind every ride is a person navigating a cancer journey, and we are honoured that some of the patients we serve have chosen to share part of that journey with us. Their stories offer a meaningful glimpse into what compassionate transportation can make possible: getting to care with dignity, with reassurance, and with one less burden during an already difficult time. For our donors, these stories reflect the very real difference your support helps create, one ride and one patient at a time.
A $72 Taxi Fare Should Not Be a Barrier:Harvey & Arlette of Richmond
Harvey & Arlette’s Journey
Harvey and Arlette live in Steveston, where life has always been steady and independent. Harvey typically does all the driving, while Arlette prefers to drive closer to home.
When Harvey was scheduled for treatment at the Vancouver Cancer Clinic, transportation quickly became an unexpected challenge.
For his first appointment, they took a taxi. The cost was $72, just one trip. With ten treatments ahead, Arlette began doing the math and wondering how they would manage. Would they need to stay in a hotel closer to the clinic? How quickly would the costs add up?
“It wasn’t something we had planned for,” Arlette recalls. “It added a whole new layer of worry at a time when we were already dealing with so much.”
At the clinic, they were met with kindness and support, but also a lot of information to absorb. One thing, however, stood out. Again and again, staff and other patients mentioned the same service: Volunteer Cancer Drivers.
“We kept hearing about it,” says Arlette. “Everyone spoke so highly of the program.”
They decided to register.
From their first call, the experience was seamless. Susan, the dispatcher, helped coordinate every trip, carefully matching them with volunteer drivers.
“The drivers were incredible,” Arlette says. “Every single one was warm, caring, and a very good driver. We felt safe and supported every time.”
With each ride, the worry began to lift.
What had once felt like a looming financial strain and a logistical challenge was replaced with relief. They no longer had to worry about the cost of taxis or the stress of getting to and from appointments.
“It took that worry away,” Arlette shares. “We could focus on what really mattered, Harvey’s treatment and getting through it together.”
Today, Harvey and Arlette’s story is one of many.
Every ride provided by Volunteer Cancer Drivers is made possible by a community of donors and volunteers who step forward to ensure that no one must face cancer treatment alone or worry about how they’ll get there.
For patients like Harvey, it’s more than just a ride. It’s peace of mind when it’s needed most.