Embracing Independence With The White Cane
“Failure to understand why I use a white cane on your part does not constitute an explanation on my part.”
~Stephanae McCoy
Originally published on April 28, 2017 and lightly updated.
If you fear using a white cane because of what other people think, fear no more. Do this for you and no one else! Accepting your white cane offers you the irrefutable gift of independence.
While the stigma of the white cane still persists, there are increasing numbers of people opening up about blindness/sight loss. Having conversations about the topic of blindness helps to not only increase awareness but also empowers those affected by it.
Managing Bold Blind Beauty has enabled me to connect with so many others who are thriving with their blindness/sight loss. Sharing stories of our featured guests continues to stoke the flames of my passion for advocacy. Breaking down barriers, focusing on abilities, and pushing for inclusion by connecting sighted and non-sighted people is key.
If you’ve been following me for some time now you know that blindness is unique for each individual. There is no one way to ‘look’ blind and thankfully technology is helping to open doors previously inaccessible to us.
I’m now 58 years old, still don’t ‘look’ like I’m blind and there is no need to prove this to anyone. Today, I boldly use my white or colored cane depending on my mood. There was a time when foolish pride and worrying about what other’s thought kept me from doing what’s best for me —no more. Nowadays when I fall it’s no longer a joke, it actually hurts. So to keep from stumbling, I use my white cane and I’m ALL IN!
There is no shame in having a disability or using a white cane or other mobility device. So SHINE ON!! Get out there and LIVE life💖 You got this!
#NoFear #NoShame #NoExplanation #YouGotThis
Embracing Independence With The White Cane
A tri-collage of me posing with my white cane in front of my counter. I’m wearing a black cold shoulder top, blue jeans and light colored mules.
Additional Images:
- A photo of my Ambutech Slim Line gold cane and one of my mustard pointy slingback flats.
- I’m posing outside with my black Slim Line #WhiteCane wearing ivory leggings, tan tank under a tan dolman sleeve sweater, and sneakers. My white backpack is sitting next to me on a wall.