Hmmm .... Zipcar.... that's a thought but I don't think they're all that
close to me since I'm not in the city. I'm about an hour North of Seattle. I
will check in to it though. If there are some close to me, it might be a
good option. And the nearest bus stop to me is a mile away so that pretty
much rules out public transit. ;-)

The main reason I have even been thinking of a 2nd car is that my teenager
is going to be needing a car. She drives the  Vanagon now and does fine with
it but she's hoping to get a job soon and will need something she doesn't
have to worry about using when I need it. She will be doing most of the
errands while I'm incapacitated. The main reason *I* need something else in
the interim is for going back and forth to doctors appointments, physical
therapy and such. Whether I am driving or simply a passenger, I anticipate
that my limited range of motion and physical ability will impair me being
able to easily get in and out of the van.

I suspect with my mobility limited, it could be 3-4 months before I am
really able to get in and out of the van successfully, even with step stools
and other aids. (By the way, whomever mentioned a cane - I actually *do*
walk with one now. ;-) Probably will for a while after surgery too.)

When I was discussing vehicle options with those in the know recently, I was
told that insurance may not help provide alternatives or modifications to
the van because of it's age. If it were a newer vehicle, they may pay for
assistance items should I need any.

Anyway, thanks for the responses, everyone! I'm open to any other thoughts
and suggestions as well!

 *Annie Anderson* Blogger, Designer, Thinker & Mom
web: annieandersonblog.com email: lsandrsn@gmail.com
twitter: silverlunace <http://twitter.com/silverlunace> facebook:
anniesanderson <http://facebook.com/anniesanderson>
*Blazin' a trail where there is no path.*

On Thu, Dec 2, 2010 at 10:10 AM, Michael <michael@jamhome.us> wrote:

>
> Zipcar "shared car" is a possibility - if one is parked close to you in
> Seattle.
> After a friend had a stroke, a license suspending event, he eased back into
> car ownership and driving with Zipcars.   He liked the service.
> http://www.zipcar.com/seattle/find-cars
>
>
>
> Annie Anderson wrote:
> > I found out from my doctor earlier this week that I am going to need to
> have
> > surgery on my back to repair some damaged discs, probably near the end of
> > January.
> >
> > My problem, and where I need the advice and help is, I'm not going to be
> able
> > to get in and out of my van once I have the surgery.
>
> --
> Michael Rasmussen
> http://www.jamhome.us/
> Be Appropriate && Follow Your Curiosity