Red Cross hits road to help
KUSHUM Narain would be stranded from her regular specialist appointments if Red Cross did not come calling.
The Ocean Grove resident is one of hundreds of Geelong region people who rely on the organisation’s patient transport service.
Ms Narain endorsed its work this week to help promote the Red Cross Calling month of March.
“The transport means a hell of a lot to me. It’s an excellent service, they’re very, very good,” the 72year-old said.
“I walk with a walker and I’m not allowed to drive because I have a problem with my legs. I lost my independence, that’s why it’s really good having this service.”
Community services program officer Mark Campbell said last calendar year the service completed 631 trips for 341 patients, accumulating 55,000km.
“It’s not a care service as such, it’s a door-to-door transport service so we can transport people with wheelchairs or with mobility issues and they are welcome to take a carer with them,” Mr Campbell said. “People need a referral from a GP or specialist. It’s free too, that’s the main thing.”
Geelong’s major Red Cross Calling day was yesterday but donations can be made all month and collectors will also be at city intersections on March 21 and 28.