Changing lives, a kilometre at a time

Travelling to and from treatment can be expensive, especially if you are having daily cancer treatment. The costs can quickly add up, but help is available.

Home to Treatment is an innovative Cancer Council Queensland service providing vital support to people affected by cancer who are struggling to get around.

It’s fuelled entirely by volunteer drivers like Cathy. We asked why she got involved.

“I’ve been fundraising for Cancer Council Queensland for around 15 years after losing close family members to cancer. But now I have some extra time I thought why not do something else to help?

 

I volunteer every Friday morning, driving patients to and from treatment. I love it, I honestly get so much out of it, more than the patients probably. I see first-hand where the money raised goes to work and the difference it makes to people.

 

“Last year I drove a lady to treatment who had been paying $106 for taxis each day to her treatment, so being able to take some of that burden away was amazing. She said to me ‘you guys are a gift from heaven,’ you just don’t realise the impact you have at the time.“

As Cathy says ‘everyone has a story’ and for many of our volunteers a big part of their role is to listen or provide a friendly face during a challenging time. They make a real difference in the lives of Queenslanders affected by cancer.

Home to Treatment is part of Cancer Council Queensland’s comprehensive range of cancer support and information services, which includes peer support programs, practical services, and a free wig and turban service.

The service transports eligible cancer patients and carers from their homes to and from their treatment facility at no cost. Currently available in Brisbane and Cairns, the service will expand to Townsville in 2019.

With your help, we can be there for all Queenslanders affected by cancer every minute, every hour, every day.

To find out more about volunteering with Cancer Council Queensland visit our volunteer opportunities page.