Going back to work meant getting up early and eight-hour workdays. My wife drove me to work and back every day and occasionally we made use of the transport service offered by Free State APD. When I started specialising I had to travel from either of two other hospitals, depending on rotations, to Universitas for discussions. My dear wife, who was formally employed as a professional nurse, had to perform all these tasks on top of being my full-time caregiver.
Thibed to Rolling Inspiration and came across the advert for Easy Drive WC, a conversion specialist. We contacted Johan Cillié, the owner, who flew up from Cape Town to evaluate me and we started looking at buying a car and converting it or importing one that's been converted, a Renault Kangoo or Volkswagen Caddy.
Johan contacted Sirus Automotive in England who, by some miracle, had a converted Caddy that was nearing the end of its demo time. We gave the go-ahead and Johan started the process. This meant a lot of paperwork, some of which he also did for us, and Leoni Taaljaard, from APD Northern Cape, evaluated me to confirm my disability.
Once everything was in order and payments made it took just two weeks to ship the vehicle to Cape Town. Johan fitted the hand controls and docking station and drove it up to Bloemfontein. It was an amazing feeling when we saw the car for the first time. I could not wait to take the car for a test drive, but my wheelchair had to have the docking component fitted!
The day finally came - August 29, 2011. I got behind the wheel. It was a lot tougher than I anticipated. I was exhausted after going around the block only once! With the unfamiliar movement, it was back to physio to strengthen specific muscles! Now I drive on my own with no major hassles.
By getting the car I have regained the independence to move around freely. As a couple, it means fewer transfers and Susan has more time for herself. Previously we had about eight transfers a day, this has been cut to just two: out of bed in the morning and back to bed at night.
Driving in town, it frustrates me now more than ever, when people do not stick to the speed limit. Two weeks ago we drove up to Kimberley to visit my in-laws. My indicator is mounted on my accelerator/brake lever and does not disengage automatically. Accelerating after turning, and when changing lanes is therefore often quite a process - especially in rush hour traffic! This was the first trip out on the open road and tested my endurance. If I could wish for anything it would definitely be cruise control, other than that the ride was perfect!"
