Volunteers help cancer patients on 'Road to Recovery'

SEATTLE -- Would you be willing to drive a mile to save a life?

The American Cancer Society "Road to Recovery" program is looking for volunteer drivers to provide free transportation for cancer patients who do not have a ride or are too ill to drive themselves to doctor appointments.

Longtime volunteer Phil Konkel picked up Christine Nyer at the Swedish Cancer Institute. Nyer is undergoing treatment for breast cancer, and had her port removed today.

"He's my angel," Nyer said in the car ride home.

Kimberly Dinsdale, Western Washington Regional Communications Manager for the American Cancer Society, said they are in desperate need of volunteers. The drivers help with the logistics of getting to and from doctor appointments, as well as offering encouragement and support to patients.

"Last year we provided over 1,800 rides to patients and still had to turn between 40-50 percent of the patient inquires away because there were not enough volunteers," Dinsdale said.

For more information, contact the American Cancer Society.