New cancer support bus launched for Kerry patients traveling to Mater Private Network services in Limerick

The Kerry Cancer Support Group (KCSG), supported by Mater Private Network, has launched a new bus for its Limerick Healthlink Transport Service - a vital lifeline for cancer patients traveling from Kerry to Mater Private Network’s Mid-Western Radiation Oncology Centre. This new vehicle replaces the original bus, which since 2019 has clocked up nearly 300,000 kilometres helping hundreds of people in the region get to their treatment safely and comfortably. 

With this upgrade, the service continues to offer patients and their families peace of mind, knowing they have reliable, free transport during a challenging time.

What began with one patient’s need for help getting to radiotherapy has grown into a lifeline for many. With significant support from Mater Private Network, it now provides reliable transport for both public and private cancer patients who might otherwise struggle to reach treatment due to distance, treatment side-effects, or lack of support.

Breda Dyland, Manager of Kerry Cancer Support Group said: “We are very proud to be able to launch a new bus on our Limerick route and, of course, to continue our association with Mater Private Network. Their ongoing support has allowed us to transport hundreds of patients to thousands of vital hospital appointments. This new vehicle will ensure that we can continue to do so in comfort and for many years to come. Our service addresses rural isolation and limited transport infrastructure. It also contributes to healthcare system efficiencies - reducing inpatient admissions, parking demand, and transport costs - while providing emotional and social support akin to a 'travelling support group.”

Lorraine Walsh, Consultant Radiation Oncologist at Mater Private Mid-Western Radiation Oncology Centre added: “We are committed to continuing our support of the Kerry Cancer Support Group and their important mission to ensure that no one faces cancer treatment alone. The introduction of this new bus is a testament to our shared dedication to compassionate, community-led care, removing barriers to access and easing the physical and emotional burden of travel for patients during an incredibly challenging time.”

Kathleen Nolan, who travelled from Listowel with the service shared her experience:

“My family was very supportive and offered to accompany me to all my appointments, but it was important to me to hold on to my independence. I was given information about the Healthlink service during a hospital visit, and after speaking to the staff at Kerry Cancer Support Group, my journey with them began. I’m so grateful for the support, kindness, and humour, it never felt like a hospital trip. Sharing the journey with others going through the same thing was a real comfort. The drivers deserve special praise. From the first day to the last, they were kind, patient, and understanding - always respectful and never intrusive.”

First proposed in 2017 by staff at Mater Private Network’s Mid-Western Radiation Oncology Centre, the route officially launched in 2018 with regular service beginning in June 2019, and has since enabled thousands of appointments - easing the journey to cancer treatment for countless patients and their families.