BELTON, TX — A Moody organization gives rides to patients with serious illnesses. Driving Hope of Texas aims to keep rides affordable, or even free, through donations.
“I see these people suffering from the trauma of transportation into the big city. But these people living in small towns aren’t used to this,” said Philip Hohle, of Driving Hope of Texas.
Staci Geigher’s son Daniel was born with a congenital heart defect.
“We were three hours away from Houston which is his main center of care and we had to travel from here, several times to Houston braving the traffic making sure Daniel doesn’t DSAT in the car,” said Geigher.
They often would need to stop often to ensure his safety. Rides from Driving Hope of Texas help her focus on her child’s needs.
The American Cancer Society says there are significant challenges of patient transportation in rural areas.
“In the city you can grab an Uber or a Lyft, you can get a taxi. There are other transportation options,” said Hohle.
Statistics show that some will even skip treatments when funds are low.
“They are in the fight of their lives, this is the least we can do to help them. If there is any way we can take a little bit of the edge, a little bit of the stress off of what they’re going through that’s very rewarding,” said Hohle.
