Shannon and I are ditching our car for two months and seeing what life is like. (Evil Chicago potholes caused $1,800 of damage to our car, and we don’t want to shell out the cash to fix it.)
In a way I’m glad - it is forcing me to actually do something that I often complain about: get serious about cancer and the environment. Did you know that four major chemicals released by car engines are proven to cause cancer in animals and humans?
I’m not going to change the world or reduce young adult cancer incidence rates. In fact, I think it is dangerous to think that individual actions, like using CFL light bulbs or buying eco-crap, are going to solve the decline of our environment. Nope, for that we need tougher regulations on car emissions, investment in public transit, and more walkable communities.
But until then, I am glad to be trying out a life that is just a tad bit less hipocritical…. how can I bitch about cancer and the environment while I’m driving my car everywhere?
Having no car has been an adjustment and sometimes frustrating. But there are some big time benefits too: I get more exercise, meet more neighbors walking, and read more and see cute kids on the bus. Plus we joined a non-profit car share so we have wheels for big errands. This would not have worked if I still had treatment fatigue, and I might not like it come winter. We’ll see…
How often do you drive? Do you ever equate daily activities of your life with carcinogenic output? If you have had major illness, treatment, surgery, did it affect your driving habits? Have you ever used the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery program?
“Everything Changes is, without doubt, the most forthright, emotionally sophisticated, and plain-old valuable book of its kind I've seen.”
