Editor, Ceres Courier,

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. Driving drunk can limit the freedom of victims.

When I was 16 in 1992 and a Junior at Tracy High, a drunken driver hit me. Schooling and playing 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 7 months in two hospitals and then had 17 months of therapy.

I lost my freedom to live independently. I cannot drive, do certain jobs and it is difficult touring 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,
Tracy

LETTERS POLICY: Letters to the editor will be considered for publication but must be signed and include an address and phone number. Letters should be 250 words or less and be void of libel. Send to The Ceres Courier, 138 S. Center Street, Turlock CA 95380 or emailed to jeffb@cerescourier.com.