[Blindtlk] my first ever NFB cane experience

[Ray Foret Jr]

Okay,  here goes.

It was at a student seminar that this happened.  Up to then, (We're talking 1987 here), I had been using one of those canes the top of which only comes up just to the sternum.  You know the type; the one's with the gulf grip rubber handle and the crooked end?  Anyhow, I had been using one of those; and even then, only during official mobility lessons.  Anyhow, quite naturally, I had not bothered to bring a cane of any sort to the hotel with me.

Somebody from the NFB, (I believe it was Jerry Withill's wife) asked me whether I had a cane or not.  OF course, I did not.  She then handed me what I thought, at first, was a fishing pole.  
	"Much too long." I thought to myself.  "And they expect me to walk around with this here fishing pole looking thing?"  
	I knew, however, that I was just going to have to deal with this sort of thing if I went to the Louisiana Center for the blind;  But, I was hoping perhaps to put it off a little.  No dice.  OF course, when I got to the center, I got used to it mighty quick and now love it.  I find that a 57 inch cane is about right for me; whether barefooted or not.  That puts the top just between my nose and chin.  I'm told that is how one should measure such a thing.  Anyhow, I happen at the moment to favor the latest NFB telescopic model.  I may change my mind at some later date; but for now, that seems to work best for me.


Sincerely,
The Constantly Barefooted Ray
Still a very proud and happy Mac and Iphone user!