I listen to Dr Laura sometimes, and she is good at putting things into perspective. { About taking or putting up with any kind of abuse or negative actions from others.}
Of course some think she is too harsh, or to cut and dried, but in general - she gives pretty reasonable advice.

here is her link-
http://www.drlaura.com/main/

Idealist-
Why would your dad think a car will make you "normal"??
I think I have read other posts where the dad just can't handle or deal with even a grown daughter with chronic pain.
Must be the "fix it "syndrome - but they can't fix it.