January 20 - White Canes in Winter

Walking with a white cane in winter weather can be a daunting experience. The challenge of negotiating freezing cold and snowbound sidewalks is difficult for many, but especially so for people with mobility challenges. I never look forward to those inclement winter days and was pleased when this past week CNIB introduced an initiative to advocate for better snow removal.

In its communication, CNIB encouraged people to self-advocate when they encounter poor snow removal practices in their own communities. We could do this by bringing hazard spots to the attention of municipalities, businesses, snow removal contractors and homeowners who might be responsible for keeping these pathways clear. Regardless of the weather and the season, pedestrian walkways should be accessible to everyone. The campaign hopes to make us all aware of this important issue.

While I am writing this about snow removal, this isn’t the only challenge of winter weather. This past week or so has been extraordinarily cold and I find holding my cane uncomfortable to say the least. If I wear light gloves or mitts, the cane is too cold to hold. If I wear heavy mitts, grasping the cane is awkward. The heavy gloves also lessen the sensation of my grasp on the handle of the cane.

Winter weather can be difficult for many of us who have mobility issues but still want or need to be outside. I am glad that CNIB is addressing this problem with its self-advocacy initiative. You can read more about the SnoWay campaign on the CNIB website by clicking here.