Hello all,

Hope you are well. Some of you maybe aware that October 15th is White Cane Awareness Day. If you are aware then hurray for you. If you are not aware then well, you will be soon.

What is a white cane and who uses them?

A white cane is a mobility aid which empowers a Disabled person to have independence. This does not automatically mean that they can travel alone instantly. It takes a lot of work.

There are multiple forms of white cane. There is a symbol cane, which is held by the Visually Impaired Person to indicate that they are Visually Impaired and may need more time and space, or might require assistance.

The other cane is a long cane. This cane is used for the same reasons as above, but the person using it is using it to navigate their surroundings. It enables them to gain tactile feedback.

You may have seen some canes come with red and white stripes. These indicate the user is Deaf Blind.

I used to use a symbol cane but now I use a long cane. I find it works better for me as I have little to know peripheral vision. As well as many other things.

Do I need my cane even if I am with someone?

Yes. My cane is something I use even if I am with someone. It allows me to let people know I need space and additional time. As well as it helping me to navigate my surroundings.

Why do we need long cane awareness day?
 
We need it because of the amount of people who chose to ignore us. There are people who will ignore our cane and step over it. They will push in front us on trains and rush to the disabled seating. They will then giggle about their ignorance. FYI. Not all long can users are completely Blind. We have limited vision.

The other day I was getting off the train and someone was getting on the train and chose to step right in front of me. I am not moving. I have had it before where people will refuse to move. Why? If you think you’re being clever…you’re not. Please refer back to those who think it is ok to rush to the Disabled seating and giggle.

We need White Cane Awareness days because of peoples lack of knowledge and more importantly peoples lack of acceptance.

You may have the gift of sight. Which is wonderful for you. Some of us do not. If people had to spend even half a day in the shoes of a Visually Impaired or Blind person they would soon change their attitude. This is also not the same as wearing a blind fold for a short activity as it does not accurately represent our day to day struggles.

Our canes give us mobility. They help us to navigate the world in a safer manner. It allows those around us to ask if we need help. I often hear people ask ‘I don’t know if I should ask if you need help?’ I always respond with ‘I always appreciate when people ask because I might not be in a position to ask for help. It is always better to ask than to ignore. I appreciate it’. This way you are acknowledging the persons Disability without taking away their independence.

Please just be mindful of white canes, or any mobility aid for that matter.

Have a great day.  

You can find me on Threads @ViusallyImapiredPip