Saskatchewan

Julia shares with us her experiences as an active person who uses a wheelchair as well a cane, and what drives her passion for educating younger people on what her white cane means.

Ramla was born in Somalia and began her white cane journey in Canada. She realized that if she wanted to live an independent life, she would need to use a cane. Now as an avid cane user she brings awareness to others.

Jason was a long-haul truck driver in Manitoba before he lost his sight suddenly. He spoke to us about how he learned to use a cane virtually and adjusted to life as a cane user during the COVID-19 pandemic.

There are different types of white canes used by Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Learn more about what they are and how they are used.

As part of CNIB Guide Dogs' class of 2022, 16 Canadians who are blind or partially sighted are graduating with their guide dogs on International Guide Dog Day (April 27) after completing intensive training. 

Founded in 1977, VIA Rail Canada connects and unites cities and people by offering passenger rail services from coast to coast to coast. Every day, VIA Rail Canada strives to provide a safe, accessible, efficient, reliable, and sustainable travel experience that meets the needs of Canadian passengers.

Everyone loves a good page turner, including Lynn Kennedy, who wanted to share her love of reading with others. In 2020, she started volunteering as a book club facilitator.

“CNIB has been a great source of support for my son, and I’m very grateful,” says Lynn. “I’ve taken a keen interest in learning how CNIB helps people with sight loss and the various programs that are available.”

Louise became a CNIB volunteer in March 2020 to provide support for people who are blind or partially sighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“It was a time of great need and total isolation for all of us. I wanted to give back to my community as someone with sight loss,” says Louise. “Using the Zoom platform regularly provided us with a feeling of connection. It also boosted our confidence with using the technology.” 

After losing his vision suddenly in 2011, Quebec City’s Louis Levesque began to volunteer as a peer support group facilitator.

“When I lost my vision, I could no longer do my job,” says Louis. “At 55, I was too young to be idle, so it seemed like a natural fit to help those who were facing the same challenges as me.”

With an incredible amount of empathy, Louis is committed to creating safe spaces that welcome the most difficult conversations related to sight loss.

Kitchener-Waterloo's Emer Ferguson volunteers as a cooking club facilitator. As someone with sight, she has learned a lot from people who are blind or partially sighted.

“Whether it’s using an Instant Pot, a slow cooker or setting aside more time for cooking, they’ve taught me that anything is possible in the kitchen,” says Emer.