Time for Prom and Graduation
Young people will soon don a tuxedo or dress, and/or cap and gown. I wore a cap and gown but graduated in a wheelchair.
When I was 16 and a junior at Tracy High in 1992, I was hit by a drunken driver. I played sports against San Joaquin county schools. The crash put me in a coma with brain injuries, paralysis and several broken and dislocated bones. I was a patient for 7 months in two hospitals followed by therapy for 17 months.
I struggle daily with hearing, talking, walking, and I cannot drive.
I planned to attend a California college. With my disabilities, I could not go to and study at UC San Diego.
Drinking and driving is unwise at any age. If drinking happens, do not drive. Designate a sober driver before drinking begins. Listen to a victim.
Lori Martin
Tracy, California
