Welcome to White Cane Connections.

My name is Sue Boman. Yes, that’s me in the picture posted here. I have called this blog White Cane Connections because I am one of the many people who use a white cane. I began this blog because I wanted to write about a project I undertook in 2012. The plan was to complete a series of walks using my white cane. Between March and September, I walked in 82 different locations across Canada. So, the blog begins by telling of my experiences and the many people I met along the way.

While this particular journey has now been completed, I find that I still have much to write about. I am continuing to make new white cane connections, and so for the time being I will continue to add regular posts to this blog. I am hoping that you will be a partner in the journey.

Sue


Friday, 16 February 2018

February 16 - White Canes and Luggage

Using a white cane in one hand and carrying anything else in the other can be tricky.  Once when I was travelling alone I decided to take a small handbag.  After all, many women carry a purse or handbag.  For me it was a big mistake.  I couldn't manage the purse in the same hand as my cane, and if I used the other arm the purse kept banging between the arm of my guide and myself as I took her arm.

These days Lyle and I have worked in it a system that will works for us.  We both wear backpacks and Lyle pulls our one shared suitcase with his left hand.  I take his right elbow and use my cane in my right hand.  It simplifies packing knowing that there will only be one suitcase.

I know that every person will work out their own way of doing things.  The other night at the airport I saw another couple with an interesting system.  The man who was blind hauled the suitcase in his left hand and used a long white cane in his right.  The wife walked shoulder to shoulder with him, grasping his upper right arm.  I thought it looked a little awkward but this couple kept up a brisk pace heading on their way.

Today in Waikiki it has been raining.  Oh yes, I forgot how tricky it is using an umbrella in addition to my cane.  Next time for sure I will bring a raincoat, or perhaps I just need to grow another arm!

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