Amanda Yela – Dispatcher

Say hello to one of our dedicated new volunteers who joined the Volunteer Cancer Drivers Society (VCDS) in February 2025! Amanda is a resident of Maple Ridge who has an impact far beyond her home city.

While searching for ways to give back, she came across VCDS and immediately felt connected to our mission. “I really liked the service VCDS provides — it’s a considerate way to support someone through a difficult time. Patients may feel accompanied, not just transported.”

Her most memorable moment?
“My very first patient! She was so grateful for the ride to the hospital, she even invited me to her home for coffee. I couldn’t accept, but she kept blessing me all the way back. She was so sweet.”

Patients often tell her how happy they are to have an organization like VCDS to help them. “It makes a real difference in their lives.”

Outside of volunteering, she wears many hats — working as a bookkeeper, homeschooling her 12-year-old, and caring for her family as a mom of three and a wife.

A highlight of her time so far?
“The training was awesome! The instructor walked me through every detail to make sure I’d be a great volunteer.”

Why does this cause matter to her?
“Because I want to make a positive impact on someone who’s not having a good time — and feel more connected to my community.”

Volunteering has opened her eyes to how illness affects lives — and lifted her own spirit:
“I feel wonderful doing it. It’s truly a beautiful, fulfilling experience.”

Thank you from all of us at VCDS — we’re so grateful to have you on our team. Your kindness, time, and compassion are helping make a meaningful difference in the lives of cancer patients every single day. –