From elementary school to college, my relationship with my white cane has changed over time.
In third grade, I got my first cane to help me move around school easier. At first, I didn't think much about it. My teacher explained how it would help me avoid obstacles, and I trusted her. I used it every day until it literally fell apart, and my teacher had to patch it up with zebra print duct tape.
However, when I got to junior high, I didn't want to use the cane anymore. I felt embarrassed about it, even though my classmates already knew I needed it. I argued with my teacher about using the cane, and she eventually let me stop using it at school, although she didn't like the idea.
In high school, I felt confident enough to navigate without the cane. But when I started college at Kent State, I knew I needed my Kane again. It became my key to independence, helping me cross streets and find my way around campus.
Today, I see my white cane as a tool that helps me live my life the way I want to. It's not always easy, but it's made a big difference in helping me do things on my own.
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