#Blindscentz

Thank-you FSJ!

My heart smiles and melts each time I go out. I would like to share some great experiences I have had that explain the benefits of community!  One of the social determinants of health is community. I go out more for social interaction than anything else.  Fort St. John, you do not disappoint.

The more I find myself out the more I experience people getting used to the idea that I am a person first and the blindness is something need only be accommodated on occasion. It is less of a focal point.  Thank-you to the brave people who take a chance and reach out to speak with me. They can be cautious and careful about fear of offending or doing something wrong.  You melt my heart and most often are greeted with my smile of gratitude.

Many people have asked why I choose to be in a small town with limited resources for the blind community.  Let me share a story.  Today the CBC was broadcasting from the Pomeroy Sports Centre. I tried to book the handidart but it was not available for the times I needed. My friend graciously agreed to drop me off on her way to work. I left home with no plan or ride back. My partner had a meeting that may have gone past noon. He may not be available to pick me up.  I said it wouldn’t be a problem.

I walked into the Pomeroy Sports Centre and was immediately greeted by CBC’s FSJ Bureau journalist, Matt Preprost! So glad to have him back in town! I was then greeted by Edward, our community builder extraordinaire! They each got me settled and made sure I felt included. I completely enjoyed the morning. Local artist Lorissa Scriven made sure to connect with me. It was a lovely exchange. Several other people came and went. I lose track of voices in large crowds. Another woman came and asked if I needed anything. I asked if she could get me a muffin from the concession. The money I pulled out was worn and I could not quickly identify if it was a five. She confirmed it was and off she went.  As she walked away, I truly laughed at myself. Never in Vancouver would I pull out a wad of money and hand it to someone who I had no idea who it was.  Lorissa came back with my money saying the line was long and she soon would have to perform. The CBC producer instead brought me a treat from the staff goodie table.

As I was walking the mall last week, I could not help but notice numerous parents invoking curiosity  with their children by prompting them to watch what I was doing with my cane. I could hear them explain to their children what and why I was using a cane. A little farther down the mall I was interrupted on my way to find my instructor by a woman. She said Hi, my name is Joan. You don’t know me, but I asked your friend if it was okay to interrupt you.  She told me that she read my articles and offered gracious words of encouragement at my progress.

During this time of tragic loss in our neighbouring community, Tumbler Ridge it has really highlighted something incredibly special that we have in the north that is not common in urban Canada

WE HAVE COMMUNITY!

  I thank you FSJ sincerely for all that you do and all that you are. .  It is something that I experience each time I go out.  Thank-you FSJ for graciously learning along with me on how to include me.

Edwina Nearhood is a long time Fort St. John resident sharing her vision loss journey.  Please remember, every person’s vision loss experience is as unique as they are.