Dear Abby: Man's motorcycle madness is driving wife over the edge

DEAR ABBY: My husband, "Chris," wanted a motorcycle for seven years. Last year I finally gave in, with the stipulation that he take a safety course and buy a good helmet and riding gear.

Two months later, Chris was in a crash and suffered several broken bones and a concussion. The hospital bill was more than $60,000. Ever since, I have been petrified of losing him. Every time Chris rides I worry, pray and often cry until he returns or calls to say he's OK.

I have begged him to get rid of the bike. The stress is taking a toll on me physically and emotionally and creating tension between us. I'm afraid it would be selfish to insist he get rid of something he loves; on the other hand, I feel Chris is selfish for not taking my feelings into consideration. I'm torn. What should I do?

— Stressed Out in Philly

DEAR STRESSED OUT: If his close call wasn't enough to persuade your husband to rethink his motorcycle riding, and your begging and distress haven't dissuaded him, accept that short of hog-tying Chris, you can't stop him from riding.

You can, however, protect yourself from some of the fallout that might result from another accident. Tell Chris that you want him to buy a life insurance policy and sign an organ donor card, because healthy young men on motorcycles are the most desired organ donors — a fact shared with me by a former executive director of an organ-donation registry. That way you will be provided for in case of a tragedy.