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As Americans prepare for Memorial Day weekend, a record 45 million are expected to travel more than 50 miles despite soaring gas prices nationwide, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA). However, for many struggling with the rising cost of living, even short trips remain out of reach.
Amanda Hamilton, a single mother of two from Kentucky, shared her concerns. “Usually, we have a cookout or spend time with family on Memorial Day,” she said. “This year, I don’t have any plans because I need to save money.”
Similarly, Brenda Howard, a 66-year-old retiree from Lubbock, Texas, described a sense of isolation affecting many, especially seniors. “This Memorial Day will be lonely for many of us,” Howard told ABC News. “Without access to transportation, we can’t visit loved ones or participate in activities we used to enjoy before prices skyrocketed.”
Howard’s situation highlights the broader challenges faced amid rising fuel costs. Without a vehicle, she depends on ride-share services, which have doubled in price over the last year.
This has limited her ability to attend work and social events. “Not being able to afford an Uber to get to church or work is really hard,” she said.
“I feel like a prisoner in my own home.”
The spike in gas prices is largely attributed to ongoing conflict in Iran, disrupting global oil supplies. Research from Brown University estimates that since the conflict began in late February, the average American household has spent an additional $326 on fuel, totaling an extra $42.8 billion nationwide.
The White House has acknowledged the impact of rising fuel costs but emphasized the importance of addressing Iran’s nuclear ambitions. President Donald Trump expressed optimism that the conflict would end soon, projecting that gas prices would subsequently fall below previous levels.
For families like Hamilton’s, the financial strain is deeply personal. With a 6-year-old daughter who has spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy, Hamilton makes frequent long trips for medical appointments.
“The rising gas prices cause me anxiety,” she said. “It takes an emotional toll because I want to provide the best for my child, but it feels like there’s no relief in sight.”
Betsy Rosado of Spring Hill, Florida, also faces tough choices. Caring for a disabled child who requires frequent medical visits, Rosado recently had to cancel a speech therapy appointment due to gas costs.
“I don’t earn enough to cover groceries, gas, medical bills, and equipment,” she explained. “We have to decide whether to go to the doctor or buy groceries.”
Her family plans to stay home this Memorial Day to save money for schooling expenses.
Veterans are feeling the impact as well. Juan Saro, a Navy veteran living in Decatur, Georgia, lost his car due to rising expenses and struggles to afford ride shares.
Supporting two young boys and relying on VA disability benefits, Saro said, “The benefits aren’t keeping up with food and fuel prices.” He expressed pride in his service but concern about being left behind.
“My message to lawmakers is simple: don’t forget about us.”
As Memorial Day approaches, these stories underscore the financial pressures many Americans face amid rising fuel costs, turning what is traditionally a time of gathering and remembrance into a period of isolation and hardship for some.