For the past eight weeks, I have had the privilege of sharing a five-day-a-week ride to the D’Amour Center for Cancer Care with up to 10 other cancer patients.
Every morning we would gather in the lobby of Baystate Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield awaiting transport to Springfield. Our driver, Judy (an employee of Baystate Reference Labs), would help us onto the van and drive us to D’Amour; later, when we had all finished our treatments, she brought us all back (cookies provided for the return trip).
What a great convenience: 38 round trips I did not have to drive myself.
All of the above only begins to describe the benefits of the experience. Of course, the actual therapy — radiation for myself — was the major objective. However, I cannot ignore the profound gains realized in getting to talk, know and learn from my fellow travelers. Over those eight weeks, a number of travelers “graduated” (I received my diploma today) and others joined the ranks. We all shared stories of our experiences, successes and side effects, goals and aspirations; and I am better off for it.
So, sincere thanks to Baystate and their Reference Labs; the doctors, nurses and especially the friendly technicians at D’Amour; and to all who shared the ride.
Tom Boisvert
Northfield