In 1921, James Biggs of Bristol, England was blinded in an accident. He came up with the idea that he would paint his cane white so it could be easily seen at night. The advantages of having a white cane became apparent quickly as others - alerted to his blindness - began to assist him and offer guidance.
Today, nine provinces have legislation that restricts the use of white canes to those who are legally blind. Feb. 5 to 11 was White Cane Week. The goal each year is to raise public awareness around the issues of being blind or visually impaired and to educate. With this in mind, the Sunshine Coast White Cane Club issued a challenge to mayors Barry Janyk and Cam Reid or one of their council members to don modified glasses and take a walk as a blind person on Feb. 11.
Janyk told Coast Reporter he attempted to negotiate another time for this event but was unsuccessful in doing so. He was in Mexico on the scheduled day.
Don Cameron, secretary for the White Cane Club said there was no response from Reid to their request.
Coast Reporter spoke with Reid on Monday afternoon. He said he was out of town and the staff responsible for scheduling meetings and appointments could not find the invitation from the White Cane Club. "We goofed," said Reid.
Flo Hill, president of the White Cane Club, expressed disappointment that this important event did not take place. The S.C. White Cane Club, currently with 20 members, tries to foster a bond of unity among the blind and provide an opportunity for social interaction. They also strive to provide recreational activities, peer support and information about adaptive aids and equipment. Special events include a summer picnic, Christmas party, informative speakers, luncheons and discussions of social concerns. Some further advantages to membership include a hospital ID program, advocacy and a newsletter. The Club meets the second Wednesday of each month at Davis Bay Community Hall at 1 p.m. For further information, contact Hill at 604-885-3187 or Cameron at 604-885-7470.
