Issues arise as mom’s driving is restricted

Dear Abby: I have been in a relationship for 10 years. We live together as husband and wife, but for personal reasons, we decided marriage is not for us. I have been married and divorced twice and have three children. One is 17, and the older two are grown. None of them have cars. We live in a rural area without public transportation.

I was recently diagnosed with epilepsy and given a six-month driving restriction. Before my diagnosis, my boyfriend signed up to do a sport over the summer that takes him away four Sundays, our only day together. He does a different sport that takes him away for Labor Day. It upsets me that knowing I cannot get around and feel “trapped,” he hasn’t altered his plans in any way. He says I’m not as “trapped” as I feel, and I should use expensive ridesharing services or rely solely on friends. I don’t have many friends, especially ones who live close.

Because he isn’t willing to modify his plans, I feel like I’m taking a back seat to his hobbies. Is this fair? What advice can you provide so I don’t feel as angry and resentful as I currently do? — Stuck in Illinois

Dear Stuck: It appears your guy is centered solely on himself. Couples are supposed to have each other’s backs. Consider this a wakeup call. It indicates that should you have more serious health problems down the line, this is what you can expect from him in the future.

That said, your present condition should improve by the end of the summer. Focusing on THAT fact may lessen your resentment right now. But don’t beat yourself up for having the feelings you do; right now, they are warranted.

Contact Dear Abby at www. DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.