Nelly Shin recently did an video interview Larry Coleman. With her permission, Nelly Shin's posting on Facebook reads...
"Larry became aware of the difficulties cancer patients face getting to their appointments while caring for his mother, who was diagnosed with cancer, eight months before passing away in 2009. With a profound understanding of cancer patients' needs, he has been volunteering for VCDS since its founding six years ago and has helped over 1000 patients safely get to their appointments.
Mr. Coleman took me on a tour of his route to cancer treatment centres in Surrey including BC Cancer Agency at Surrey Memorial Hospital and the Jim Pattison Outpatient Care And Surgical Centre. He told me there's a growing need for more volunteer drivers to take patients to their appointments in the Lower Mainland. Patients don't pay for rides. Volunteer drivers are compensated 55 cents/km for gas. I put this video together trusting you'll be inspired as Larry shares a bit about VCDS and some heartwarming interactions he's had with patients and their loved ones. You can tell he finds great joy and purpose in helping others and says, It's the right thing to do."
Left Photo - Steve Scott. Right Photo: Steve Scott, Dave Ludwar and Bob Smith-VCDS President
When putting out the call for volunteer dispatchers on a local Facebook community page "The New Tsawwassen Loop" , a trusted member of the community stepped up to volunteer. Steve Scott, and his wife, have positively impacted the lives of people in their community for decades. Dispatching for Vancouver residents, Steve’s outstanding commitment of care for others eases the stress faced by cancer patients in treatment.
In presenting the Platinum Medallion honouring Queen Elizabeth’s 70 years on the Throne, MP Kerry-Lynne Findlay recognized George’s many community activities including co-founding the Volunteer Cancer Drivers Society. She said, “George is our local hero.”
George has a wonderful concern for others. Many cancer patients became the beneficiaries of his drive to build our volunteer service to transport them to their need for essential care. A truly outstanding citizen of British Columbia and Canada - RJ (Bob) Smith, VCDS President
Truly deserving of an outstanding humanitarian. Larry Coleman - VCDS Director at Large
George is truly an amazing man who has contributed to the VCDS and the community in many ways. He is a most deserving recipient of the honour. George McAffer - VCDS Executive Vice President
Megan McLaren MCP, RCC
Joining the VCDS, with our recent expansion to Greater Vancouver, Megan brings a relatable and calming energy when it comes to driving patients to their treatments. We asked Megan questions to get to know her and her "Reason Why" she became a volunteer.
Q: What inspires you to Volunteer and how did you come about volunteering with the VCDS as a driver?
For the second year in a row we are pleased to announced that we have been awarded the "Smart and Caring Grant" from the Abbotsford Community Foundation for the amount of $2500.00. Having deep roots in Abbotsford, spanning 40 years, they have been supporting local charities through their various granting programs.
left to right, Gord Lock-VCDS Communications Director with ND Rotary's David Brown
The North Delta Rotary club is a long time supporter of the Volunteer Cancer Drivers Society. At a recent lunch meeting their President, David Brown, presented Gord Locke - VCDS Communications Director, with a generous donation of $3,000.
Left to Right: Cody Schick, Eric Picher and Larry Coleman
On Saturday, March 21, 2022 we received a cheque for $750 from the New Westminster Fire Fighters Charitable Society.