Vehicle gives blood patients lift
SERVICES for blood cancer patients in Coffs Harbour have been enhanced with the launch of a new patient transport vehicle.
The car, sponsored by Coffs Harbour property agency The Edge, will provide courtesy transport to and from treatment for patients and their families.
"It's just one thing they don't have to worry about," said The Leukaemia Foundation's Peree Watson.
"They have enough to worry about with their diagnosis."
The service is specifically designed to relieve the pressure faced by patients who are transport-disadvantaged.
"Many patients are treated as outpatients so they might need to come in five days a week," Ms Watson said.
"Often it's too hard for families to get them there and back, especially if they have to work."
During treatment a patient's immune system is severely weakened so catching public transport can be dangerous due to possible infections.
Acquiring the vehicle would not have been possible without support from The Edge.
"We are just pleased to support it, the service is such a great thing," said Jason Burnett, The Edge principal/licensee.
The transport service will operate in Coffs Harbour and surrounding regions including Grafton, Dorrigo and Macksville and is completely operated by volunteers.
For more details, contact Chris Hobson, Mid North Coast Support Service coordinator, on 6659 2011 or 0423 782 969.
