Driving to Independence

Posted: 9/27/2008 at 11:59 PM

share this:

I LIKE IT

member(s) liked this post.

Email this to a Friend

Independence is happiness. ~ Susan B. Anthony

I worked most of my adult life to become independent. It has always been important for me to take care of myself. My parents taught me well. Then MS joined me on my Life Journey and put a chink in my armor. Life changed and so did my independence. I was going to need help.

Now, I know everyone needs help at one time or another, and not everyone is able to ask for it. Some people have difficulty even accepting help that is offered, let alone asking for it.

I remember when I got my drivers' license at 14, thanks to Louisiana. It didn't occur to me at the time, but that was my first step toward independence. I no longer had to rely on my parents or school buses or friends to go anywhere. In fact, I became the friend who could transport others.

Now fast forward 35 years or so when MS made its debut in my life. Driving habits had to change. I traded my 5-speed sports car for an automatic sedan so I no longer had to manipulate a clutch. This was the first time I had power steering, so that was easier, too. As control of my legs continued to wither, I added hand controls. I could still drive -- a requirement for getting around in Dallas, and that was a big step in continuing my independence. I could still get myself to work, to the grocery store, to the doctor's office, and to see friends and family. Driving, for me, had changed, but I managed to remain independent. It was a good feeling.

While I gave up driving, I did not give up my car. It is equipped to carry my cart and me so I am still able to travel. I still enjoy face-to-face relationships, but I also rely on social networking online, as Karaswims points out. Most of my activities are done on my terms. Yes, I did give up driving, but I am keeping my independence intact. My independence is no longer dependent on driving.

60 Views

share this:

Comments

Your comment may take up to 15 minutes to appear.

Name

Your e-mail

Body

Some HTML is allowed in the comments. See the list.

Driving to Independence

Comments

See what's hot in the Disaboom Community.

Please Wait...

Related Blogs

Related Articles