Pained but Positive

Life is challenging for Barbara. At 86, her body isn’t what it used to be. She has had both knees replaced; she has a herniated disc in her back; and she suffers from extreme sciatic nerve pain. She often feels overwhelmed and out of sorts. “Sometimes, it’s like we’re drowning in everything. All we want to do is just lie down,” she says as she talks about how she and her 88-year-old husband, Charles, spend their time.

But the two of them still manage to get out and about. Barbara and Charles both have frequent medical appointments, and they rely on Volunteer Transportation drivers to get them to clinics and home safely again. She recently told one of the program’s staff members, “It has been tough to lose our independence, but you have made it easier. It is an awesome program, and I think everyone who is a part of it is awesome. I really do. The volunteers are incredible. I can’t imagine life without it.”

There are many seniors like Barbara throughout King County — older adults who struggle with newfound physical realities and face many health challenges as they age. Their journey can be a difficult and frustrating one, but volunteers from Senior Services’ Volunteer Transportation program support them throughout the process in all that they can. Rides to the doctor’s office are much more than the rides themselves; drivers offer companionship, empathy and kindness in addition to the much-needed transportation.

More volunteer drivers are needed! If you have the “drive” to help others and a clean driving record, this is the volunteer role for you. Visit our website with this link or contact Hilary (206-748-7588 or hilaryc@seniorservices.org) to find out more. Help more seniors like Barbara get “on the road” to improved health and peace of mind!