On October 16th, the Center for the Visually Impaired celebrated White Cane Awareness Day by hosting an open house. Clients and community members gathered to remember the resilience of the community and the power of sharing their stories.
The theme was “Keep Sharing Your Story. You Never Know Who You May Inspire.” For the first time, guests remarked on their journeys in a video sharing booth, allowing their words to continue to inspire after White Cane Day on CVI’s YouTube channel.
Former and current clients used the opportunity to share poems, songs, and stories conveying their experiences with vision impairment and the belonging and comfort they found within the local blind and visually impaired community.
“I didn’t know what to expect coming into the blind community,” said Rosa, a support group leader for CVI’s Adjusting to Vision Loss Support Group. “They welcomed me with open arms and helped me navigate this journey of vision loss.”
For many storytellers, vision loss not only altered their sight, but also their outlook on life.
“Life is about perception and perspective, perception is the way you think, and perspective is the way you see things,” said Caprion, a support group attendee. “When I changed my perception, I was able to see this was a blessing.”
Others chose to speak on their experiences at the Center for the Visually Impaired and how CVI’s services, such as Orientation and Mobility Training, allowed them to regain the ability to travel independently.
“Before I found CVI, I knew I had vision loss, so I found two stickball bats and I used to use them as my cane,” said Lafayette, a former CVI client. “I came here and received mobility instruction. My training allowed me to find anything, and I can now go anywhere. I am so thankful that I eventually reached a place like CVI.”
Alongside services, clients reflected on how CVI’s Vision Loss Support Groups helped community members find compassion, belonging, and a transformed outlook on life.
“The training I got at CVI helped me navigate through life. I don’t know where I would have been without them. They shined a little light on life and showed me life is still possible as a visually impaired person,” said George, a founder of CVI’s support groups and former client. “Life is not over as a visually impaired person; it is just beginning a new journey, and CVI can help navigate that journey.”
To hear more stories from White Cane Day, click here to view the YouTube Playlist from the event.