The Fourth of July is one of America’s favorite holidays. We proudly celebrate the freedom and independence our brave soldiers fought hard to gain and keep.
Some abuse their freedom by driving drunk. Drunk driving can limit the freedom of victims.
In 1992, when I was 16 and a junior at Tracy High School, a drunk driver hit me. My schooling and ability to play sports against other San Joaquin County schools ended.
The crash put me in a coma for 100 days with broken and dislocated bones, paralysis, and brain injuries that affect me daily. I spent seven months in two hospitals, and then underwent 17 months of therapy.
I lost my freedom to live independently. I cannot drive and do certain jobs, and it is difficult to tour the beaches, deserts, forests and fields of beautiful California because my hearing, talking and walking are impaired.
Show your American spirit by designating a sober driver if you drink. Do not drive drunk. Freedom does not include cuffs and steel bars.
Lori Martin