In my experience, progressive sight loss can make the transition into adulthood that bit more challenging. However, learning various basic skills can help young people maintain greater independence. With no immediate role models to follow, taking up the use of a white cane was something of the unknown for me. My support worker encouraged me gradually and allowed me to learn and explore at my own pace. It felt like I had found something that I had been missing for a long time. The benefits were clear and it was the right time for me, which is what I think is crucial. Experimenting with different tips, lengths and types of cane was a big part of the initial introduction. I soon discovered that the trick is also to get a suitable length that will allow you to switch between your different shoes, not forgetting your fave pair of high heeled boots!
I was first taught how to use a guide cane, but I began by using a symbol cane around college - a safe environment - to get used to carrying one around. Part of me also wondered if I could get away with just using a symbol cane as it was nice and small and neat. However, a short spell misjudging steps, kerb edges, walking into things and some generally scary situations confirmed my need for a mobility aid cane.
One particularly memorable incident further confirmed this for me. On this particular day, I was approaching a boisterous crowd of lads. With the all too familiar feeling of my heart racing, knowing that I had to make my way over some uneven ground to pass by directly in front of an audience, I hoped that I would get past without stumbling. Inevitably misjudging the uneven path which had lots of pesky holes in it, I tripped a little which drew their attention towards me. I heard one of the young crowd say: "Touch the ground with yer stick!" followed by a rumble of jeering. If I had used the cane I'm using now, this would not have happened. As symbol canes are only designed to symbolise sight loss, it was not long or strong enough to use practically as an aid without stooping. Blushing and wishing I could magic my longer cane into my hand at that moment, I pretended not to have heard this comment and continued gingerly on my way.
It made me wonder at the time just how many other people had experienced similar comments and from what age group whilst using their white cane. It also made me consider how many more times in the future I would encounter this. However, a few years on, I have not had any such comments which I think suggests that the majority of people are much more considerate and respectful. Harsh though this treatment was by this young chap, he actually did me a favour as it helped towards spurring me on to training with the cane I need, despite his obvious lack of understanding. I am now also continuing training on various routes with a long cane and have never looked back. I still accept the help of a sighted guide from time to time, but I feel that it is a real confidence boost when I can choose to get around independently.
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