[Ohio-Talk] Children Using Canes

[marianne at denningweb.com]

I certainly remember when schools for the blind didn't encourage students to
use a white cane on campus. Thank you for sharing your story.

-----Original Message-----
From: Ohio-Talk <ohio-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Colleen Roth via
Ohio-Talk
Sent: Friday, May 13, 2022 6:23 PM
To: ohio-talk at nfbnet.org
Cc: Colleen Roth <n8tnv52 at outlook.com>
Subject: [Ohio-Talk] Children Using Canes

Hello Marianne,
My Braille Teacher, Sister Maura O'Brien, had my grandfather cut a wooden
cane to my size. It had a Metal Tip on it. I started using it in secod
grade. I used it at school and on the Playground. I also used it on some
outings but used Sighted Guide too. I did use the cane to warn me of
dropoffs.
When I sttted attending OSSB I was frustrated because I couldn't use my
cane. I liked to locate things with it. I still used Sighted Guide but it
did give me information.
I never used Echolocation and hated walking without a cane and navigating
outside at OSSB. I always got lost when I wasn't in a group.
I did not like to walk alone on Campus. It is cruel to have children walk
without a cane like that.
When we were in the country, 2 acres, my grandparents called the Farm I used
my cane particularly after my grandmother fell and broke her ankle. There
was no phone out there then.
I manage to yell loud enough for the neighbor to hear me but I feel quite
unhaspy when I do not have a phone (house phone) and a cane if I am outside
alone.
I think it was pretty amazing that my Grandfather and Sister Maura came up
with me using a cane in 1959.
Sister Maura got her Master's from Catholic University of America in work
with the Totally Blind. Another Ursuline got her Master's in work with the
Visually Impaired. Sister Joan of Arc never used her Degree.
When you get used to using your cane it is easier to use it in public. I was
never allowed to use my cane when my mother was present.
Colleen Roth, President;
At Large Chapter;
NFB of Ohio;


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