New service for cancer patients at Beaumont

PATIENTS undergoing chemotherapy at Beaumont Hospital can now avail of transport to take them to and from hospital visits.

The new service will remove the stress and worry from patients who need transport to the hospital for treatment. 

It also removes the need for dependency on family and friends who often find it difficult to take time off work for their loved one’s appointments.

Volunteer drivers recruited by the Irish Cancer Society will provide lifts for people throughout their chemotherapy treatment.

Most volunteers are booked for one or two drives per month and a contribution is paid towards their fuel, all road tolls and some refreshments during the day.

The addition of the service at Beaumont Hospital, which has been running since June, means it is now operational in every public hospital offering chemotherapy nationwide.

Irish Cancer Society chief executive Averil Power said she was delighted to offer the service at Beaumont Hospital.  

“This service was created when we heard of the added stress organising transport to and from appointments was having on patients and their families,” said Ms Power. 

“Being able to take that burden off someone during one of the hardest times of their lives is hugely important for us at the Irish Cancer Society and wouldn’t be possible without our amazing volunteers.”

Pauline Ackermann, Head of Clinical Services at Beaumont Hospital, said: “We aim to deliver the highest quality of care to our patients and this service will ensure chemotherapy patients feel supported on a practical level throughout their treatment. 

“It has been embraced by hospital staff at all levels and we look forward to a positive and productive relationship with the Irish Cancer Society in developing this service.”

Mary McAndrew, a Multiple Myeloma patient, has used the service to take her to treatment in Tallaght Hospital since 2016. 

“Knowing you have your transport to chemotherapy sorted is like having a weight lifted off your shoulders,” she said.

“I have a wonderful family and lots of friends, but all of them have their own lives to lead so it’s fantastic that I can get that practical support elsewhere.” 

For further information call the Volunteer Driver Service team on 01-2310522.