When the World Doesn't Adapt to You, You Adapt to it

For as long as I can remember, I have been reliant on a wheelchair and a walker for most of my mobility. My power wheelchair has in a way become my " legs" when I need to travel long distances. I love my power chair or " lightning" as I call him because, it gives me freedom and independence to keep up with my friends. Even though I am extremely grateful for my wheelchair, I have always dreamed that someday I would be able to drive a vehicle, so that I can go out and do what I want without having to ask someone to drive me . Well that dream is finally becoming a reality.

I had an appointment with my neurosurgeon and, he said that my mobility has significantly improved since the last time he saw me almost a year ago now. He filled out a medical that will allow me to take a special driving test. You see, because I have a mobility impairment I have to undergo a unique driver's simulator test that will ultimately test how good my reaction time is. If the test is successful and I am given the approval to drive, I will most likely need adaptive hand controls in ordr to safely drive a vehicle. The adaptive controls will consist of a switch for both the gas pedal and the brake. For so long now, I have thought of my wheelchair as being my mode of transportation and, I had not actually taken the time to ponder the possibly of having a driver's license, but I have to admit the possibility of driving does bring a smile to my face.

A huge part of my life has always been taking the time to consider ways of preforming everyday tasks according to what my needs are. I have said many times before that there is always a way to do things, it just might be in a different way than everyone else and that's okay. The harder and longer it takes to accomplish a goal, the bigger the reward will be. When the world does not adapt to you, you adapt to it. My philosophy is that even though I might not accomplish my goal of driving when it comes down to it and least I made the steps to give it a try.