A few days ago, Jayshree Kansara and Katherine Gonsalves were strangers. Now, Katherine Gonsalves is Gonsalves' lifeline.
As a Drivers for Survivors volunteer, Kansara takes the 82-year-old to daily radiation treatments for free.
"I myself am a survivor and when I went through it, I wish there was something like that here," Kansara said.
"It's a godsend; the first time I went through radiation, I was driving myself," Gonsalves said.
The non-profit transportation network was born out of Sherry Higgs' battle with breast cancer four years ago.
"It takes a toll not just on yourself but everybody around you," Higgs said.
Immediately after going into remission, she started looking for a way to give back. In just two years, Drivers for Survivors has given more than 2,600 rides to 91 patients in Alameda County.
"To have offices sprinkled conveniently, so we can work together, I'd really like to see that happen," Higgs said of her future wishes for the organization.
They're hosting a gala may 17 to raise money. If you'd like to help or donate, visit driversforsurvivors.org.
"You're going through so much and to try to keep yourself up emotionally is lots of work; I have great pride in the service and I really appreciate it," Gonsalves said.
Because sometimes a free lift can save a life.
