By Rose S. Prinzi
Christina and her family had just moved to the quaint little town. Having adjusted to their new surroundings, they decided to plan a trip back “home” for the holidays. With her and her husband, Michael, working full-time and their two children immersed in school activities, a trip home would be a nice break. The family couldn’t have been more excited. However, Christina had been hampered with a nagging cough for over a month and decided to make an appointment to see a doctor.
After a preliminary exam, a CT scan and a bronchoscope, she was diagnosed with cancer. Her world was turned upside down. Immediately, intense chemo therapy for three days a week for three weeks was scheduled.
With her husband working full-time and no family or friends available in the immediate area, how was she to get to her treatment?
Everyday thousands of cancer patients confront this dilemma. Transportation to treatment is one of the most common concerns that cancer patients face. Without a reliable means of getting to and from treatment, many patients find it almost impossible to comply with their treatment regimen. Many patients need daily or weekly treatments over a period of weeks or even months and simply have no way to get there.
The American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery Program provides free transportation for ambulatory cancer patients who have no other way to get to their cancer treatment appointments. It is truly a life-saving program.
Recently, through the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation’s Community Service Funds, the Road to Recovery Program was able to purchase a vehicle, which would replace one of their aging, high mileage vehicles. The CRCF’s Community Service Funds are designed to assist local organizations with their specific needs for the benefit of the community as a whole.
Family members and friends may not be in a position to help. The lack of transportation can create incredible stress on the patients and their family members. Ultimately, the lack of transportation may impact the recovery of the patient.
The vehicle, which was purchased with the CRCF funds, is used mainly for transporting patients to the Buffalo area. With distance and weather being major factors, it is imperative that the Road to Recovery has a dependable vehicle to transport patients. All patients who use the Road to Recovery Program are picked up at their home, taken to their treatment facility and then returned home after all the patients have finished their treatment for the day.
This invaluable service has been in our community for over 20 years through the dedication of numerous volunteers who make the Road to Recovery a special program. In any given year between 100 to 125 patients are serviced. This service is extended to those who choose treatment in the Buffalo area as well as locally.
We never know when a funding request arrives at the Foundation what the impact may be on the community, but this specific request is one that is helping to save lives one person at a time.
For more information about the Foundation’s Community Service funds and how you can make a difference in someone’s life call 661-3309 or go to www.crcflonline.org.