Do Second Chances really exist for truck drivers

by Lori Nichols
(Columbus ohio)

I drove from 1983 to 2003 and was an owner operator for the last few years I drove.

I had some major things happen in my life (3 tragic deaths in my family in 6 mos) and unfortunately not dealing with them caught up with me. I turned to drugs and alcohol to ease the pain. Believe me it does not work.

I got a DUI in 2004 and a drug charged in 2006. I was arrested in 2005 but was not convicted for almost a year. I have been clean and sober since 2005 the day of my arrest.

I now can thank god that this happened even though it has caused huge issues with employment and may keep me from ever driving again. It at least woke me up and made me see the light and change my ways and perhaps may have even saved my life. For that I am very grateful.

I am a 45 year old female who has trucked for a lot of my life. I am looking into getting my CDL again but really would like to feel confident that I will be able to find employment before I go the expense of doing so.

It seems that even the companies that hire felons still exclude those of us with a drug felony.

I realize that I may have to start at the bottom of the barrel and I am willing to do so. I am honest, hard working, and have never taken a dime off of anyone. I can supply letters of reference attesting to the fact that I am and have been sober and have changed my life.

I work with other women in treatment centers and jails to try and help them do as I have done.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.