“We Would Be Lost Without It” – How DART Helped John and Maureen Regain Their Independence
- julie178914
- Jun 18
- 2 min read
Having been married for 62 years, John and Maureen Lennon have spent a lifetime supporting one another through life’s ups and downs. Today, they are regular users of DART’s Community Transport service, which has helped them regain the independence they thought they had lost.
For many years, John was the family’s main driver. However, following a bleed on the brain, he began experiencing memory problems and no longer felt confident behind the wheel.
“I was forgetting things and didn’t feel comfortable driving anymore,” John explains.
Almost overnight, the couple found themselves relying on others to get to medical appointments, collect groceries and carry out everyday tasks.
Their son has been a tremendous source of support, but with a full-time job of his own, John and Maureen were reluctant to keep asking him to take time off work.
“We didn’t want to feel like a nuisance,” says Maureen.
It was a neighbour who first told them about DART. After hearing about John’s situation, they suggested the couple look into the Community Transport service. John and Maureen signed up and, in their own words, “haven’t looked back.”
Before his health changed, John enjoyed an active lifestyle and was a keen golfer and fisherman. Following his brain injury, many of these hobbies became difficult to continue. The couple also attended local community groups, but funding cuts led to several of them closing, leaving John and Maureen increasingly isolated.
The introduction of Community Transport changed that.
Today, DART helps the couple attend medical appointments, go shopping and remain connected to their local community. Most importantly, it has given them back a sense of independence.
“The thing we enjoy most is having gained back our independence,” says Maureen. “We would encourage anyone who is feeling lonely or isolated to sign up.”
The couple are full of praise for the drivers and staff who support them on their journeys.
“The drivers and staff are all great and so helpful. It is a weight off our minds knowing we can rely on Community Transport. We would be lost without it.”
Stories like John and Maureen’s demonstrate the difference accessible, reliable transport can make. Community Transport is more than a journey, it helps people stay independent, connected and involved in the things that matter most.
If you or someone you know is struggling to access appointments, shopping or social activities, DART’s Community Transport service could help you regain your independence too.
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