| Whether on a social
outing, navigating a professional performance venue, running personal errands
or crossing a busy street, I thank God for the early training which to
this day contributes to my independence. Before I was introduced
to a cane—in fact, before I had begun to walk—my family and I were part
of a “Birth-To-Three” educational program, at that time a service of Eastern
Illinois Area Special Education. As a toddler, I was further introduced
to sounds, textures and very basic mobility skills. I received my
first white cane when I was eight years old and in the third grade.
By the end of that school year, thanks to my orientation and mobility instructor
and the encouragement of my family, I had crossed residential streets and
was traveling independently throughout my hometown. As I grew older,
I was taught to cross lighted intersections, to navigate busy streets,
and to move through areas congested with heavy foot traffic. I learned
different cane techniques and sharpened my listening skills. With
each new experience, I was taught that I could go anywhere and do anything,
as any sighted pedestrian would.
By itself, the
white cane doesn't do much. There are no fancy electronic gadgets
hidden in this slim, hollow “white stick”, as some people call it.
However, with the proper training and regular application of that training,
any blind individual (not having multiple challenges) can travel independently
using a white cane. For me, the cane is an extension of myself, and
learning to use the cane properly has become like developing an art form.
Are there times when I need to ask for sighted assistance? Of course
there are. I see these occasions as opportunities to educate people
who would not otherwise know how to best assist a blind or visually impaired
individual. Do I ever make mistakes? Of course I do.
These are opportunities to enjoy a good sense of humor, and again, to educate
any sighted person who might be involved.
Sometimes, it
is hard for sighted people to imagine that we who are blind can be independent.
People often want to grab my arm or tell me that something is in my way,
thinking that they are being helpful. While it is polite to introduce
oneself and ask if help is needed, sighted people should never assume that
a blind person is incapable of traveling independently. With the
right tools and the right training, we are very capable; and for me, the
white cane is my mobility tool of choice. God's gift of independence
in my life makes every day a reason to celebrate!
To learn
more about white cane safety and awareness, or to schedule one of Laurel
Jean’s workshops on blindness-related topics, contact Laurel Jean using
the information below. Stay tuned for more pages like this one. Click
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