[Blindtlk] Should I, Shouldn't I?RE: (no subject)

[Cindy Ray]

Well, Chris, I think a lot depends upon you. But first, why do you think you
are a bother to people "just to get on a plane." Aren't your needs important
enough to have you ask? Wouldn't they care enough about your safety? Is
there no airport shuttle you could employ, or is the price prohibitive. I
don't want to have offended you, so hope you get the spirit in which I mean
it.

Second, I would imagine from what you said you have the ability to learn how
to use a cane. You already know how. You had some mobility training already.
You set the stage for the sighted folks you use. I personally would have to
find people with whom I felt comfortable, but you definitely have to set
your own rules on this. Then if it isn't working for you, I would suggest
that you either see if you can get transport to the airport to go to Leader
Dogs or apply for one of the NFB Centers and go there upon receipt of your
application. 

Cindy


-----Original Message-----
From: blindtlk [mailto:blindtlk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Szostak,
Christine via blindtlk
Sent: Monday, December 1, 2014 12:59 PM
To: blindtlk at nfbnet.org
Subject: [Blindtlk] (no subject)

HI All,
  I am new to this list and also have a question.

  First, for those who do not know me, my name is Chris and I am totally
blind. I lost my vision completely as a young  adult (I was born visually
impaired with usable vision in one eye). I lost my vision about 14 years
ago. 

  My question relates to traveling.

  I am a long-time guide dog user. I received my first guide when I started
to lose my remaining vision in 1999 and have had continuous dogs since then
with no breaks longer than approximately 1 week between dogs. 

  For various reasons, I am seriously considering switching to a white cane
and this is where my question comes in.

  Although trained on the basics (e.g., I know the basic techniques such as
how to move the cane while in general motion, roughly how far to swing it,
how to deal with things like steps...) I have had only very limited use with
it.

  I was considering something like Leader Dogs O/M program since our O/M
services here where I am living are aweful. However, there are some really
frustrating obsticals (e.g., the closest airport for me is around an hour
away and I live alone and do not want to ask someone (family do not live
near me) to drive me that far simply to board a plane).

  I should say that I have had a lot of O/M training throughout my life so
know how to safely cross major streets independently... so can safely
travel.

  Thus, given the above, I have been considering just getting myself
up-to-speed with some help from sighted folks I know without being in a
formal training program. DO others here think this is doable based on what I
have said? I feel like  I could do it, but  would really appreciate advice
from those who are experienced in cane travel as I really would value your
thoughts and opinions. Any advice, suggestions... would be sincerely
appreciated.
Have a wonderful afternoon!
Chris

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