Patient Stories

Meet Hunter, a determined 26-year-old who recently took a significant step toward independence. For years, he dreamed of learning to drive, envisioning the freedom that comes with being able to go places on his own. Hunter, however, has a disability and needs support to make this dream a reality.

When Hunter’s family discovered the driving rehabilitation program at Hospital for Special Care, he felt a spark of hope. This innovative program is designed for individuals with varying abilities, offering a safe and supportive environment to develop driving skills. With the help of a multidisciplinary therapy team, Hunter embarked on a journey that would change his life.

At first, Hunter was unsure of the program. However, as he got to know his therapists, Nicole and Sara, he began to see their unique perspectives on driving. Their tailored guidance and understanding of his needs made a profound difference. They helped him break down difficult maneuvers into manageable steps, making the learning process feel less overwhelming.

Hunter uses the fully immersive real-life DriveSafety™ driving simulator, in his occupational therapy sessions, where he practices mastering essential skills, particularly navigating challenging turns, understanding the signs on the road, and navigating distractions. His speech therapist helps him understand the rules of the road with visual aids and works him through practice questions to study for his learner’s permit.

After several weeks of practice, Hunter achieved a major milestone: he earned his learner’s permit.

Hunter’s story is a testament to the power of determination and the impact of specialized support. He is now well on his way to achieving his goal of driving independently with the skills he gained from his multidisciplinary care.

Individuals like Hunter can take significant strides toward greater independence and confidence through programs like driving rehabilitation. If you or someone you know is looking to enhance their driving skills, consider exploring the resources available at Hospital for Special Care. Together, we can empower more individuals to take control of their journeys.