Margaret “Peggy” Swickard of Niantic has been getting cancer patients throughout New London County to and from their lifesaving treatments as a volunteer for the American Cancer Society’s Road To Recovery program.

After the loss of her partner of 24 years, Peggy was asked by another American Cancer Society volunteer to join the program. Over the past year, Peggy has driven patients at risk of missing treatment a few times a week.

“When I am fortunate enough to drive someone to an appointment, I am invited into a bigger world. Sometimes the ride is quiet. Sometimes there is unexpected laughter between folks who hardly know one another. Whether I share several rides with someone, or just one, I have a very strong, lasting memory of another’s unique struggle in our common world,” commented Swickard.

The American Cancer Society is in need of more volunteer drivers to support the Road To Recovery program, which provides cancer patients with free rides. This year, an estimated 21,950 Connecticut residents will be diagnosed with cancer, and for some getting to treatments can be their biggest roadblock.

A successful transportation assistance program can be a tremendous, potentially life-saving asset to the community. That’s why volunteering for the American Cancer Society’s Road To Recovery program is so important.

“Every day, thousands of cancer patients need a ride to and from their treatments,” said Samantha Martinez, program manager with the American Cancer Society. “Even the best treatment can’t work if a cancer patient can’t get there.”

The American Cancer Society currently has nearly 10,000 Road To Recovery drivers nationally, but the need for drivers is greater than the number of volunteers. In many communities, due to the lack of drivers, transportation needs can go unmet.

The organization screens and trains all volunteer drivers, and coordinates the rides for patients. Volunteer drivers donate their time and can provide as many rides as they want. They are also trained and asked to use Service Match, a web-based, mobile-optimized tool that will allow the volunteer drivers to choose which rides work best for their schedule and availability.

All drivers must have: a valid driver’s license, good driving record, access to a safe and reliable vehicle, computer access with email capability and proof of car insurance.

To learn more, visit cancer.org.

Stephanie Balesano is a communications director for the Northeast Region chapter of the American Cancer Society.

Kindness in Real Life is a regular feature in the Times. To contribute, email times@theday.com.