[Mn-abs] Freedom for the Blind

[David Andrews]

For me, using a long white, straight cane is a preference, I find 
them to be more reliable and better tools than folding or telescoping 
canes.  It does take a little practice in learning where to put it, 
on planes I get a window seat and put it down between seat and 
wall.  In cars, if in front seat, bring back end in first towards 
back seat and lay down between seat and door.  then bring in front 
end, make sure all in and shut door.  In back seat bring in tip end 
first, and push forward between seat and door, until it lays 
down.  Hope that makes sense.

Dave

At 05:56 PM 1/5/2011, you wrote:
>I was wondering if anyone else on this list has read Freedom for the 
>Blind by James Omvig.  I am reading it now, and find much of what it 
>says very good; he articulates many things I have believed my entire 
>life and values my parents raised me with.
>
>I'm almost to the section on the long white cane, and I have 
>wondered about this for some time.  I understand the emotional power 
>of using a long cane and the statement it makes, but it seems less 
>than necessary from a pragmatic standpoint.  I prefer to have a cane 
>that is able to fold not because I want to hide my blindness, but 
>simply for convenience.  I'm rather tall, so having a long cane that 
>can't fold would make it very difficult to travel in cars, at least 
>I'm assuming so.  (I can't imagine the fits airlines could have over 
>this.) Does anyone have experience with this? I'm trying to explore 
>options right now.  I want to get more involved with the larger 
>blind community and I'm fast approaching college.  Any discussion on 
>this would be awesome.
>