With a $6,000 Jackson EMC Foundation grant, the American Cancer Society can keep its Road to Recovery program going strong. The program provides rides to and from treatment for people with cancer who do not have a ride or are unable to drive themselves. Volunteer drivers donate their time and the use of their cars so that patients can receive the life-saving treatments they need.

“A cancer patient who needs radiation therapy may require between 20 and 30 trips to the clinic within a six-week time frame,” said Mission Delivery Manager Ashley Morrow of the American Cancer Society.

Road to Recovery was developed to assist patients in getting to and from these life-saving treatments when they have no other way. “We have been trying to build our Road to Recovery program and we are so grateful to receive this funding that will enable us to reimburse drivers,” Morrow said.

The grant funding from Jackson EMC will help reimburse Road to Recovery volunteer drivers’ mileage for volunteers living in Banks, Barrow, Clarke, Jackson, Madison and Oglethorpe counties.

The American Cancer Society will offer training for those interested in being a part of the Road to Recovery program at Jackson EMC Auditorium twice on April 21, 2009, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Drivers must attend one of these free trainings. Drivers must also possess a good driving record, a valid driver’s license, auto insurance and a vehicle that is in good working condition. Driver motor vehicle checks are required.

For more information on becoming a Road to Recovery volunteer or to RSVP to attend training, call Ashley Morrow at the American Cancer Society at 706.549.4893 or e-mail at amorrow@cancer.org.