A couple weeks ago I needed to pick up a prescription refill, so I drove myself to the drug store. This was the single most freeing event I’ve had since becoming paralyzed. For the first time in nearly two years, I didn’t have to ask someone to do my boring chores. For the first time in nearly two years, I didn’t have to wait until someone wasn’t busy. For the first time in nearly two years, I went somewhere BY MYSELF.

I don’t think I realized quite how much I missed my old self until I could drive again. I used to love driving! I loved making last minute plans or meeting up with friends for lunch. If I needed to go shopping or pick something up, I could just drive myself to get it. I’ve missed that freedom.

Getting hand controls installed in my car was the final piece of the puzzle. I’m still working on getting my chair in and out of my car and some other logistics, but that will come with time. It’s taken longer than I’d hoped, but I’m finally feeling like myself again.

Laura