Meet Doug, resident of Delta and one of our dedicated Volunteer Drivers, who’s been behind the wheel since 2020.

 

For this long-time volunteer, joining VCDS wasn’t part of a grand plan—it started with a simple conversation. “I’d been involved in cancer fundraising with Larry Coleman,” he explains. “He talked me into it.” And like many great things that start with a nudge, it became something much more.

 

Since 2020, he’s been driving cancer patients to and from their treatments—quietly, reliably, and without fanfare. While no single ride stands out as “the most memorable,” each one is meaningful. “All the drives are memorable for various reasons,” he says. “Every patient has their own story.”

 

It’s what patients don’t have to worry about that stays with him. “So many have said they really appreciate having one less thing to worry about. We reduce their stress. A few have even said they wouldn’t have started treatment if it wasn’t for VCDS.” That kind of impact doesn’t make headlines—but it changes lives.

 

Outside of volunteering, he teaches part-time and drives his grandkids from place to place—“probably more miles than I drive for VCDS,” he laughs. His motivation is deeply personal: cancer has touched his family many times. “Many members of my family have died of cancer,” he shares. “This work matters.”

 

Through it all, he’s gained something many of us take for granted: perspective. “I have a true sense of gratitude and appreciation for my privileged position—good health, financial security, and living close to my children and grandchildren.”

When asked to sum up his experience in three words? He doesn’t hesitate:

“Because I can.”

 

We can’t thank Doug enough for the impact he’s having!