Alan Wallis – Why I Drive

Alan Wallis, a resident of Port Coquitlam, officially joined the Volunteer Cancer Drivers Society in July 2024 — but his road to the driver’s seat wasn’t exactly a straight line. After retiring in October 2023, Alan signed up to volunteer, only to encounter a few unexpected delays, including a mix-up involving someone with similar credentials who was mistakenly labeled a “person of suspicion.”

Alan isn’t easily discouraged — and on July 22, he finally hit the road for his very first drive. Since then, he’s become a trusted and compassionate presence for patients needing a safe, supportive ride.

“I like driving. And my instinct is always to help. I was incredibly lucky during my own cancer journey — my wife, Sylvia, was by my side for every appointment. Not everyone has that.”

Alan knows firsthand what cancer treatment feels like — chemotherapy, radiation, surgeries, even a year with an ostomy bag. Now, he offers patients what he once had: steady, quiet support on the hardest days.

“There are some really nasty chemos out there. I came through mine relatively well. Now I want to help others get through theirs.”

From the patient who slept peacefully in the backseat after an exhausting day, to the one he spotted outside the cancer centre before she could even reach for her phone, Alan’s drives are filled with small, meaningful moments of care.

“You want people to know you’re there — not just for the ride, but for a bit of peace in an otherwise stressful day.”

Outside of volunteering, Alan is a proud dad and granddad, a landscape photographer, guitar player, cyclist, and choir singer. His roots are deep in community and kindness.

His reflections on cancer are personal — having faced it himself and lost several loved ones.

“Our family’s cancer count may be higher than most — but the truth is, everyone knows someone.”

His biggest takeaway from volunteering?

“Everyone appreciates arriving early enough for a bathroom break. And everyone deserves to feel safe getting to and from treatment.”

And his three words to live by?

“Just show up.”

Thank you, Alan, for showing up — with heart, humour, and humility — every single time.