Well - as some of you know I got attacked in my cab in August and have been very very scared of driving ever since. My cab grew horns and a tail and started to carry a fork!
Until it happens to you maybe you can't understand how it feels to not be able to drive a 5 mile fare without having a full blown panic attack; I know how stupid it sounds but I got that worked up that I could drive my private car hundreds of miles but the cab was like a demon that I couldn't drive.
I bit the bullet literally and took a 400 mile fare this morning. I shook like a leaf when the guy said where he wanted to go; my mouth went dry and I really had to concentrate on not letting my hands actually grip the steering wheel for fear of another attack and not being able to get them off.
Thankfully after the first 80 miles these feelings passed and I started to really enjoy the journey and suddenly remembered why I loved driving and why I used to love this kind of job. Coming home I put in a CD that I used to really love (ok so its Irish music! we all have our faults) and totally blasted the volume and maybe my speed just a little bit! And you know what? It felt fantastic! I can't wait to do it again!
I'm posting this for three reasons; the first is to say a huge up yours to my former office for having the "you can't do it" attitude; the second is to say a great big thanks for my now office for their support and understanding and the third and most important it to say that we are so open to abuse / violence etc and can all fall victims at some time or another but it is possible to get back out there and enjoy your job again! I very nearly gave up (the for sale sign has been taken down) I really didn't think that I would be able to cope after what happened but I think I've proved my point now.
So many of you on here have been so supportive and offered phone numbers etc - ok so I used a couple today but mainly just to shout that I'd done it! I really can not thank everyone enough - I think I'm finally back to normal but I definately couldn't have done it without all of you.
Sorry if this thread sounds soppy but bear in mind that I am female and was raped in my cab 6 months ago .................. there you go I've said it loud and to all ..................... this really has been a great day for me and I look forward to lots more to come!
If ANYONE ever has a problem that they feel they want to talk about - I'm here PM me and I'll phone you! Or just make your presence felt as people on here will be more than supportive - and these are people that I have never met!
Love you all and love my job again!
THANKS!
great news you are feeling better within yourself 
