I was in a car accident 10 weeks ago. It wasn’t my fault. I know that I was lucky. My car was totaled and my ankle was broken in two places but at the time I thought I was going to die. I am now the proud owner of seven screws, two plates and a rod..
For seven weeks I was not allowed to put my right foot down. I lived in my bed, a wheel chair and a recliner. I could not live alone. My kids and sisters were wonderful taking turns stopping their lives so they could take care of me. Like I said, I was lucky.
I no longer have flashbacks. I can now ride in a car without bursting into tears. The overwhelming fear and anxiety have finally stopped. I am now walking slowly with a cane and a five pound boot. Week 3 was my first shower. Week 8 allowed me to slowly do my normal chores. As of today I can cook, do the dishes, my laundry, vacuum and sew again. Soon I will be allowed to walk in shoes and three weeks from now I’ll be allowed to drive. Of course I have to buy a car which will cost me twice what the insurance will pay for. And I don’t know yet whether I’ll be brave enough to get behind the wheel.
Prior to the accident I played water volleyball four times a week, did a lot of quilting with the Sew and Sews club, hiked, and recently discovered the joys of pottery. All that stopped. It’s been a long slog and I want my life back.
The reason I bring this all up is the other driver. I don’t know what happened or why. That is frustrating but I just have to swallow that. I don’t remember the driver slowing, swerving, or braking. If this was a medical emergency I have no complaints. But if this was a driver that knew they shouldn’t be driving, and did it anyway… I paid the price for that recklessness.
At our age we’ve probably had the “It’s time to give up driving” conversation with our parents. If our kids are bringing it up it is time to listen. If we have doubts it’s time to be honest with ourselves.
I know it must feel like one’s life is over when one is no longer safe behind the wheel. The loss of that independence is hard. But is it worth risking the lives of others? Most car accidents happen within a mile of one’s home. A short trip to the lodge is no excuse when other’s safety is at stake. I was a mile from my home when I got hit.
Giving up our keys is hard but it needn’t be the end of the world and giving up your car can save you money. There are other transportation options:
• McHenry County has a free ride share (though donations are accepted) You’re allowed two round trip rides a week. You sign up ahead of time and have to be able to get into and out of the vehicle without assistance. For more information or to be a volunteer driver call: 815-4553120. This service is available to anyone living in Sun City.
• MCRide offers low cost transportation. $3.00 for 5 miles. $5.00 for 5-10 mile trips. Their buses are wheel chair friendly. For more information call: 800-451-4599.
• Ride in Kane has a similar service which costs $5.00 each way. A companion can ride for free. For more information or to be a volunteer driver call: 888480-8549.
• Neighbors and friends. I know we are conditioned to help others but it’s important to remember it’s OK to ask for help! If you belong to a club or participate in scheduled activities don’t hesitate to ask if someone lives nearby who can help get you from point A to point B.
• Home deliveries. Jewel, Aldi, Walmart and Walgreens all offer services to shop your list of items and deliver it straight to your home. Easy!
Giving up our keys is a tough thing to consider but we owe it to everyone else to make a decision that will keep our roads safe.
