NETWORK Ireland West Cork has announced Cancer Connect as its official charity partner for 2025.

Cancer Connect has become a lifeline for cancer patients in West Cork since 2011, offering free, confidential and compassionate transport to Cork hospitals for essential treatments.

With over 500 volunteer drivers, the charity has recorded over 58,000 passenger journeys since the service began, with demand continuing to grow for this vital service.

‘Cancer Connect is more than a transport service, it’s a beacon of hope,’ said Anna Healy, President of Network Ireland West Cork.

‘As a growing network of professional and community-minded women, we are uniquely placed to help amplify this message and I truly hope more members and the wider community will consider giving just one day each month to become volunteer drivers.

‘Patients have come to rely on Cancer Connect not only because it’s free, but because it gives them control over their treatment journey, reduces stress and restores a sense of independence.’

Originally operating with only one staff member, Cancer Connect has grown into a professionally run, community-rooted non-profit, with charity status.

Volunteers use their own cars or the charity’s eight-seater car to safely transport patients to and from treatments including radiotherapy, chemotherapy and specialist consultations such as dental or wig clinics.

‘Volunteers are the backbone of everything we do,’ said Helen O’Driscoll, manager of Cancer Connect.

‘Most of our drivers commit to just one day a month, yet the impact is enormous. We understand people are busy but that one day can change someone’s life. Our passengers don’t just get a lift, they get peace of mind, dignity and human kindness during a very vulnerable time.’

Originally serving only West Cork, the service now stretches across much of the region, expanding its reach thanks to ongoing volunteer support and community fundraising.

In 2024, the charity received €50,000 in State funding, a significant step towards securing longer-term sustainability.

Even so, operations remain largely community-driven, with over 200 grassroots fundraising initiatives in one year alone.

With more than 44,000 new cases of cancer diagnosed each year in Ireland, this alarming increase highlights how cancer is affecting more lives than ever before, with an increased need for comprehensive support services, pioneering research and public awareness.

Network Ireland West Cork and Cancer Connect are calling on its members and the public to rally behind its mission by raising awareness of this vital service, to volunteer their own time or to consider contributing vital donations.

Helen concluded: ‘Every diagnosis represents a person in need of support, treatment and hope. As demand increases, so must our resources. We cannot do it alone. I would like to thank every one of our volunteers who have ensured that hundreds of patients each year make it to their life-saving treatments, with the compassion and care extended to them and their families as they avail of this vital service.’

Visit www.cancerconnect.ie to donate and learn more.