By Isle of Wight Observer
In just six days, the Isle of Wight’s Save the Daisy Bus campaign has raised just over £10,000 – an extraordinary outpouring of community support for a vital transport service helping Island cancer patients reach treatment at Southampton hospital.
Campaign chairman Michele Newton said her team of volunteers was “staggered and humbled” by the generosity flooding in from individuals, businesses, and local groups.
“This response has been overwhelming,” she said. “It’s not just the donations – which have ranged from £5 upwards. Obviously, every penny counts. But it’s also the messages, the offers of help, and the sheer kindness. People truly understand how important this is.”
The new minibus service launched today and ran without a hitch. Patients were met at the Red Jet terminal and transported to Southampton hospitals with care and dignity. One woman was visibly moved, and her husband simply said: “We have no words.”
Michele added: “I don’t know how I got back into the terminal – I was almost in tears. We’re doing this for the right reasons, and I have the support of a wonderful team.”
Choosing the right transport provider for the next six weeks was crucial. “When we were getting quotes,” Michele explained, “we knew we’d found the right company when Sally from Eastleigh-based Xelagroup asked, ‘Do you have a list of the people coming so we can greet them by name?’ That told us everything. Chris the driver was so kind, and the bus was immaculate.”
Deputy Tom Binet, Jersey’s Health Minister, acknowledged that while the Island’s government can no longer fund the entire service — as it has in previous years — he hopes the two Islands can work together to find a permanent solution. “This is a shared Island challenge, and one that deserves a shared solution,” he said.
While the previous service reportedly cost £86,000 a year, organisers are confident they can deliver the same level of care for significantly less – but they recognise that ongoing fundraising will be essential to keep the wheels turning.
The campaign team is now focused on building a long-term, sustainable plan through donations, sponsorships, and volunteer support.
“This is just the beginning,” Michele said. “We’re building something that puts Island patients first and helps them during one of the most difficult journeys of their lives.”
Editor of the IW Observer, Carole Dennett, a member of the campaign team added: “It’s been incredible to see the community rally around this cause. We’re proud to be part of something that’s making a real difference.”
To donate or get involved, visit the fundraising page, contact the campaign on Facebook, or email savethedaisybus@gmail.com.