Transportation sits at the center of our daily lives. Having access to it could also mean having access to food, clothing, education, jobs, friends, necessities and all other resources that the world has to offer. Indeed, it provides numerous opportunities and possibilities.
Yet, for some people, having no reliable and practical alternatives to transportation could not just be an inconvenience--but a nightmare. This is because there is no other way for them to access healthcare and live normal lives.
“I have been driving my whole life, but I keep forgetting how to drive… Medstar has been a lifesaver. I have decided that whenever I need a ride, I just have to call Medstar instead of anyone else.”
This is not just fiction for Joan Oxentenko, 62, who suffers from several conditions and has no spouse or children to rely on. Aside from several nodules on her lungs, she also has some balance issues and keeps forgetting things. Medical professionals are still trying to determine whether she is suffering from Dementia, Parkinson’s Disease or some other related illnesses. Because of these conditions, driving and going to different places have been very challenging for her.
“I have been driving my whole life, but I keep forgetting how to drive. I’ll be in the middle of the highway and ask myself, ‘Where am I?’ I am exhausted, and stuck, and I have nobody. I do not have a lot of family.” Joan expressed.
In 2019, Joan found out about Medstar Transportation, an experienced ADA paratransit and fixed route contracted transportation provider, delivering on-demand non-emergent transportation services throughout the State. She has been using its services for one and a half years now.
“Medstar has been a lifesaver. I have decided that whenever I need a ride, I just have to call Medstar instead of anyone else. The people there are really nice and polite,” she said.
Joan may have been suffering from memory issues, but she has always remembered some of the names of the drivers who help provide her mobility needs--Freddie, whom she described as a funny, sweet, and talkative guy, is one of them.
“Moving around is definitely difficult for people like me. But I just keep going. My situation has made me strong and more aware--Attitude is everything!” she said with determination.
For Joan and many others who suffer from disabilities and other medical conditions, mobility constraints have become a major obstacle to enjoying a quality life. It is a struggle that is all too real, and needs to be acknowledged and addressed. Medstar Transportation has recognized this pressing need and it is committed to providing equal opportunities for people to access safe and reliable services. After all, transportation is not just a basic need—it represents independence, autonomy, and well-being.