Vancouver Island possesses a relatively unknown gem: Wheels for Wellness.
I discovered this organization when I was referred to a medical specialist in Victoria and needed to get to my appointment from Nanaimo.
Wheels for Wellness shuttles island residents from their home communities to medical appointments elsewhere on the island. The drivers are volunteers, and clients are asked to contribute a donation within their budget to help cover costs. If you are on provincial disability (PWD) as I am, you can have your doctor fill out a form, and the ministry will make a payment to Wheels for Wellness on your behalf. This also applies to income assistance recipients and First Nations Health Authority clients.
I called the central booking line several weeks before my appointment and booked my ride.
My driver called me the night before to confirm details and set a pickup time. He arrived promptly at my home the next day, driving a shiny and comfortable Kia mini-van. There was one other client in the van who was also going to Victoria for a medical appointment.
I arrived on time at my specialist appointment in Victoria, well-rested and relaxed. When my appointment was concluded, I called central booking, and they notified my driver. He returned to pick me up. Relieved with my appointment over, I made myself comfortable in the back row of the mini-van and slept all of the way back to Nanaimo.
As someone who is on a limited income, has complex medical needs, and is not able to drive long distances, I am incredibly grateful for this service and the volunteers who make it possible.
Check out our website for other transportation resources.
Poverty Advocacy Nanaimo 