When Lahaina resident Grace Nava’s daughter’s cancer went into remission two years ago, she felt the need to help others.

She understands how cancer can impact a family, especially those with little or no family support.

“I can’t heal them, but I can help them with a ride,” said Nava.

Grace is one of eight Lahaina residents who has been volunteering to drive cancer patients from Lahaina to treatment centers in Wailuku through the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery program.

Without these “angels on wheels” to drive patients to their lifesaving treatments, several recent Lahaina patients would not have had free ground transportation.

The American Cancer Society is continually recruiting volunteer drivers to assist cancer patients in need of ground transportation.

In 2012, Road to Recovery volunteer drivers provided 131 rides to Maui patients.

There has been an increase of rides requested this year, especially from West Maui patients.

Volunteers must provide their own car, car insurance, a valid driver’s license for a national DMV clearance and be available to take an orientation class. Gas mileage reimbursement is available through a partnership with the Pacific Cancer Foundation on Maui.

Road to Recovery is a nationwide American Cancer Society program. Call 244-5554 for more information and to volunteer.

Just by giving rides, you can make a big difference in the life of a West Side cancer patient.