Hello Dear Readers,
Life is full of twists, turns, and unexpected roadblocks. For me, one of those detours was a stroke that meant I had to relinquish my driving privileges. Let’s be clear – driving with double vision wasn’t an option. Safety First is a motto I stand by. Putting myself and others in danger on the road was simply unthinkable.
Coincidentally, my grandfather found himself in a similar situation around my stroke. A man with an unyielding passion for driving, he had reached a point where his ability to navigate the roads had become questionable. Despite the apparent risks, he clung to his independence, holding on to his keys longer than most felt was wise. The family debates over his driving, particularly between him and my mother, were common, filled with arguments and exasperation.
Drawing from these familial experiences, when the time came for me to evaluate my driving capabilities post-stroke, I didn’t resist. Admittedly, I didn’t share my grandfather’s fervent attachment to driving, which made my transition easier. For him, driving was more than just a mode of transportation; it was a cherished activity. While I enjoyed the freedom that came with driving, I could let it go without feeling a significant void in my life.
Fast forward to today, and I can handle an automatic car safely. There’s a snag, though. My wife and I own just one vehicle, and it’s equipped with a standard transmission. While I’ve come to terms with not being behind the wheel, I can’t help but sometimes feel a pang of guilt. My wife now bears the sole responsibility for our driving needs. She’s the designated driver each time we venture out, whether for grocery shopping, social visits, or appointments. It’s a load I wish I could help carry, even if just occasionally.
However, I’m optimistic about the future. The world is on the brink of a transportation revolution. We’re inching closer and closer to the era of fully autonomous cars. Imagine that – vehicles that don’t need human intervention, capable of taking us from point A to B safely and efficiently. Once these vehicles become commercially available, they’ll be game-changers for people like me. Not only will they alleviate the driving responsibility from my wife’s shoulders, but they’ll also restore a measure of the independence I’ve lost. Running errands, visiting friends, or just going for a drive will be unrestricted by my current constraints.
To sum it up, life sometimes throws curveballs that unexpectedly alter our paths. While the inability to drive has been a temporary setback, the horizon looks promising. With technological advancements, our roads are set to become more inclusive, ensuring everyone can enjoy the journey, regardless of personal challenges.