[nagdu] canes/guide dogs

[Vanessa Lowery]

I don't tend to check messages as frequently over the weekends, so I'm always going to be playing catch-up on Mondays, but as a member of ACB who has attended four or so national conventions, the rift between cane users and guide dog ysers is also alive in well.  I don't think it has anything to do with organizational affiliation.  It is jsut a rift that exists between the two camps.  Personally, I would prefer that it not exist, but it does.  However, as Julie correctly put it, not every cane users has a beef wiht guide dog users, and not every guide dog user has a beef with cane users.  But I also don't think that the rift is as wide-spread as is often thought simply because convention settings are enough to put everyone on edge, no matter what means of mobility is being utilized.  it is jsut a stressful environment.  No matter how large the venue is, there are crowds that pile up, and patience goes out the window (guide dog users, canes users, those using sighted guide, and the people trains).  

Good post, Julie, by the way.



Vanessa Lowery, LGSW
Adult and Community Services Division
Adult Services Screening Unit
410-853-3550
VLowery at dhr.state.md.us


>>> marilyn <t21114 at optonline.net> 7/9/2012 8:08 AM >>>
Hi Everyone,
It saddens me to hear there is still a problem with cane users and dog users at conventions. I can remember when there were no canes when I was growing up and you felt your way around or held someone's hand. Ok I am old and proud I made it to this age. I joined NFB back in the 80's before I had a guide dog. the group out here in Suffolk County was terrible. When I made a decision to get a dog I was put down and told I was giving up my independence. One man had a guide dog in the group. I told them no I am enhancing my independence. After getting my first dog my husband and I decided to see what the NFB convention was like. Lots of information but fights between people using canes and dogs. After I think 2 days my husband and I both turned to each other and said were out of here. I have never been to a convention since. If we can't work together then we are divided and that is why ACB started. we can all have different views but the main thing is respect each other. We are mo!
 re alike than we are different. 
I am a good cane user but prefer a dog. That being said I have to get ready to leave for the blind group I go to every Monday morning. that is the only day I don't work.
marilyn and Anna
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