Allan’s eyesight isn’t what it used to be, which had made it impossible for the Heathcote local and his wife Pat to attend medical appointments in Bendigo, 50km away. Their situation worsened when Allan was diagnosed with cancer and needed crucial treatment.
Thankfully, Flying Doctor Community Transport, a RFDS partnership with Heathcote Health, can help people like Pat and Allan get to their health appointments and access vital medical care. The service has been a lifeline for the couple, who are able to stay connected to the community they’ve been part of for more than 50 years.
“I don’t know what we would have done without it. We wouldn’t be able to get to the doctors. They’ve been absolutely marvellous”, said Pat.
Thanks to our generous supporters, RFDS volunteer drivers are able to pick up eligible residents from their homes and take them to health appointments, free of charge. With limited public transport in the area and a return taxi to Bendigo costing close to $100, this service is vital for regional community members, especially the elderly, disabled or ill.
Pictured: Erin Foster, Community Transport Program Coordinator, picks up Pat and Allan from their doorstep to take them to their health appointments.
For Pat and Allan – and hundreds of other Heathcote residents – Flying Doctor Community Transport is making a life-changing difference to their health and happiness.
“The drivers all do such a good job. They’re very talkative and make me feel at ease. If I’m feeling down when I come out of the doctors, they make me laugh and talk about different things. They are wonderful,” says Pat.
Your generous donation will help keep the Flying Doctor on the road, providing essential healthcare services to Australians like Pat and Allan. Thank you!
