Bud O'Donnell worked 10 to 12 hours a day delivering petroleum products in the morning and driving a school bus in Western Pennsylvania in the afternoon. Specialists say up to 15 percent of truckers suffer from the disorder, meaning an estimated 1 million sleep-deprived truck and bus drivers are on the road. Still, the U.S. Department of Transportation does not screen for the problem in the physical required for all commercial drivers, raising concerns from many, including O'Donnell's doctor. That tells you something. I don't think they're asking about it.
Sleep apnea is treatable.
O'Donnell wears a special mask over his nose at night that pumps oxygen into his lungs. Since using the mask, he has more energy and rarely falls asleep before bedtime. Sheriff's police officers began their second semester of riding school buses after four motorists late last year whizzed past the Palos Heights school bus. The program is now operating in 21 Cook County schools and with the support of students and parents, it is proving successful. The benefits of having a police officer on board also have their benefits.