February 18 - Purse to Pocket

This past week I have been thinking about mobility. I have been reflecting on the small accommodations I have made over the years since the day of my initial vision loss. Generally speaking, when I could drive myself around, I would carry a large purse which acted as a catch all for all kinds of little odds and ends.

The transition from purse to pocket came gradually. I am a little shamefaced to admit that when I was first introduced to a white cane, I used a fold up kind, which I tucked inside my purse. Yes, I know. It didn’t do me any good to have it there, but it was out of sight and initially that was the way I wanted it. However, when it became clear to me that I needed to use a cane as much for my own safety as anything, the purse became a hindrance.

These days, I like to have my hands free of nonessential encumbrances.  This way I can hold my white cane in my right hand and if I need to do so, I can take a guide’s arm with my left. Gone are the days when I carried a purse over my arm.

Additionally, in those early days of vision loss when I was no longer able to drive, I found that I was walking more. The purse and its contents were heavy. I tried solving the problem by switching to a backpack but this was also added weight and soon I began sorting through the contents to see what it was that I really needed to carry around with me. Eventually, I found that I could put most of this – door keys, a small amount of cash and an ID card, in a pocket.

It’s been an interesting transition from purse to pocket and one which didn’t happen overnight. I think that my biggest transition was one of self-image.  I have needed to develop new ways of thinking. I needed to balance the fact of my vision impairment against a wish to retain my independence. It’s been an interesting journey and it’s not over yet!