Alison Coyle – Why I Drive

“I give because I want to — and what I get back is tenfold.”

After a 27-year career in policing, Alison was looking for something new — something meaningful. Inspired by a friend and fellow volunteer, as well as her love of driving and connecting with others, she joined the Volunteer Cancer Drivers Society in early 2024. Since then, she’s been a kind and steady presence for patients across North Delta and North Surrey.

“I started with a couple days a week,” she says, “and then I kind of got my schedule wrapped around it. It blends in with me perfectly. It’s flexible, it’s rewarding, and it gives me purpose in retirement.”

Alison brings more than just her time — she brings connection.

“We’re almost like the proverbial bartender,” she laughs. “Patients open up — not because they want advice, but because they need a space to talk. And we’re there, without judgment.”

From couples who request her again and again, to patients who offer her a home if she ever visits Brazil, Alison’s drives are full of warmth, perspective, and humanity.

“Some people I meet are going through so much — but their attitude helps me more than I help them. It gives me a reality check. It nourishes me.”

Outside of volunteering, Alison enjoys family time, cooking (Granville Island is a favourite), cycling, golf, travel — and her cats.

Her three words to describe volunteering with VCDS?

“Rewarding. Educational. Nourishing.”

Thank you, Alison, for showing up with heart, humour, and humility. You remind us what service truly looks like.