For an organization like Road To Hope, even the best years have some sad days.
In 2012, the local organization continued its quest to ease the burden of local cancer patients by arranging for transportation to the city for their treatments. Selfless volunteers continued to give their time and effort to drive clients to and from their appointments, and local individuals and businesses kept coming forward with donations.
In addition, fundraisers like the annual golf tournament raised money and awareness for the organization.
In all, RTH tallied a total of $33,500 in donations.
ì2012 was very successful. The community was awesome, as theyíve been for the past few years,î said transportation coordinator Madena Reimer. ìWe did exceptionally well. There were so many different events and organizations and people who wanted to get involved.î
But as much of a difference as Road To Hope makes, Reimer canít help but wish the need for the services they provide would disappear for good.
ìWeíd like more drivers and less clients, in a perfect world,î she said with a laugh. ì(But) cancer does not go away, so I assume weíll be as busy as ever (in 2013).î
The growth of RTH in 2012 was tempered somewhat by the sadness that came with the loss of three clients.
ìThatís the downfall of Road To Hope; knowing you canít save them all. Even though we help them, we canít change their diagnosis,î said Reimer, a cancer survivor herself.
ìBut their families are still very grateful to each and every driver that we have.î
Right now RTH has five clients whom they are supporting during their treatments, and nothing would make Reimer happier than for all of them to receive a clean bill of health tomorrow. But assuming they donít, work will continue to raise funds and entice more volunteers to sign up to help those in need.
ìWeíre always looking for more drivers. The more the better,î she said, noting some drivers trek to the city and back each day.
ìOur drivers are awesome. We donít want them to get too worn down and tired.î
Those interested in making a donation or volunteering as drivers can contact Reimer at 780-327-9442.
ìWeíll keep doing our part to help them and their families. Thatís why we do it.î
