Guess this will be considered sort of a whine, but probably some others can relate. Because of this lousy disease and the progression to SPMS with extremely spastic, stiff legs, I've decided to sell my car. Another part of my independence has been taken away. It took awhile to make the decision, but it seemed a waste just having it sit there, so after MUCH thought and finally getting my mind around the idea, I'm selling it to my friend who lives in Maryland. He was going to get a new/used car this year anyway and he always loved riding in mine and knows the history. It's a '99 Chrysler 300M with only 25,000+ miles and all the bells and whistles. At least I had the chance to buy a brand new car once in my life!! And it was even the Motor Trend Car of the Year!!

Maybe down the road I'll think about a handicapped accessible smallish van but it will have to be a rear entry to be able to use in my garage. Since I had a ramp built there to get outside in my powerchair, there's about four inches to squeeze into the driver's seat!!!

I've been checking into Auto Transport Companies on the internet and have narrowed it down to two or three. Does anyone know anything about these carriers or have any experience with them? I don't think we're supposed to mention specific names on the board, but if you have any info, please feel free to PM me!!!! It's hard to tell who's reliable and there's quite a price range. Oh yeah, I'm in NE Pennsylvania and it's going to the Eastern Shore area of Maryland......about five hours.

Anyhooo........just another depressing MS thingy! But at least I won't have to pay car insurance.

Thanks for listening guys.

UGH! That is a hard decision, Judy. I really feel for you on this one. You're right though, storing and insuring an unused car is pointless, and with gas going through the roof, it makes a lot of sense. Surrendering the privilege of driving is one thing that really will feel like a personal violation to me.

You deserve a lot of credit for making the decision yourself, though, and I give you kudos for that.

I've used a couple different transports in my area and both held up their end of the bargain. It does take a lot of time because they are required to basically bolt us to the floor, but being trapped at home was worse for me.

Maybe try them out and decide which one is best for you. Good girl for going to plan B instead of giving up! You have spunk.

Hi Judy! I can't offer any help for your questions, but I just wanted to chime in and say that I admire your attitude and am glad you found a good home for your car. We just had to tell my MIL last wk that she can't drive anymore and she's hopping mad at us, but she had backed out into the hwy in the path of a police car, among many other "instances". *she has Alz*

Just continue to get out and about when you can and hope you can find a quick solution to your transportation problem.

*I do understand, as my DS is near blind, so has never been able to drive, but he can go anywhere he wants to* Where there's a WILL, there's a WAY!

I have gone through short periods when I couldn't drive, and longer periods where I could only drive short distances, but giving up our independence (and a fancy car!!) would be a very hard adjustment for anyone. It sounds like you've made a realistic decision, albeit a sad and hard one.

I don't know anything about the transport companies, especially in the US, but is there a Better Business Bureau (or similar organization) you can talk to to find out their reputation?

It sounds like your car is going to a good home, so I guess that might please you somewhat.

Sorry you had to make this decision, Judy.

Cherie

I am sure that was such a hard decision to make. I admire your courage for admitting it, and following through with it, and yet not givin up complete hope (ie the van). Sorry it seems to have taken away from your independence.


Connie

Thank you all so much for your encouraging words. I really appreciate it and somehow it just makes things a little easier knowing others understand.

Sure wish there were treatments available back when I was first diagnosed, even before that in '76 when I had the first bout with ON. I'm going to think carefully about getting some kind of van since usually I'm so pooped just getting ready to go out, like the doctors, dentist, etc., that it really isn't any fun after all. Even if my neuro had prescribed LDN sooner, perhaps things wouldn't have been quite as bad now since I seem to have stayed pretty stable since starting it -- maybe 3 or so years ago? At least then I was still driving some.

Yes Cherie, I'm trying to get in touch with the Better Business Bureau, but this old web tv takes forever to get anywhere. Paid car insurance today but instead of six months as usual, went with three months. Hopefully it will be gone during that time and then I'll get a refund. Apparently there is a way for them to hold my spot, State Farm, in case I do get another vehicle down the road. I also have my homeowners with them.

Now if this rain would just stop -- two days now so double Ouchers! Take care........

I hear you, Judy. I chose not to renew my DL in 2006. I torchered myself over whether or not to go into the DMV and renew. I had never had to divulge my MS, but was afraid I may have to, this time, so I just let it lapse.

I have a Chrysler T&C MiniVan sitting on a trickle charger, with a scooter inside it, just waiting for the next time my DD uses it to take me to the Docs or anywhere I must go.

Ok enough of my drivilly whine....just wanted you to know, you're not alone.

Thanks Sally -- yup, thank goodness for the internet and places like this! It's really a blessing for anyone who can't get out anymore.

I never heard of that kind of charger. Does it just give a small charge all the time? I finally came to the conclusion that my lift being hooked up to the electrical system, must be why my battery was always going dead even though I had people start it just about every week. A local garage here in town put in two new batteries for free -- ssssssshhhhhhh -- they didn't know the lift was in the trunk!! It never dawned on me until last week -- duhhhh.

I did just have my license renewed so that will be okay if I need one again, but so far that desire just isn't there anymore. Are we having fun yet????? Take care.

JUDY

Understand the horrible feeling of not being able to drive

When the ms first hit me many years ago, I couldn't drive for
a long time. Now thank God I can drive when I have my good days.

I give you a lot of credit in going for the van. If you can do it, do it.

Wishing you a lot of luck and prayers in going forward.


Jappy

Yes, Judy, it doesn't overcharge. It just keeps the battery from going dead from inactivity. Eventially the battery will go dead, as batteries do, but at least, it's ready to go, when I am.

I had the same problem as you, when I was still driving...the side lifter I had installed, used to much juice for a regular battery. I had to get a more powerful one.

Do Ya wanna buy a Mini Van with scooter, lift and charger?? Just kidding, as it makes me feel good, just knowing that if I have the urge and I'm having a good day, I can jump in it and take off.