I'm in my late twenties, and I have a job. I am studying for a PhD, and I live and travel independently. I think of myself as quite an independent person, aware and able to deal with my environment. Without both vision and hearing, I have to rely almost exclusively on touch to know what's happening around me. But sometimes, things happen - like a recent walk from the tube station to my flat - which make me realise that there must be quite a lot happening that I am oblivious to. This is the story of a recent Thursday, from my perspective.
On my way home from work, I walked out of a London tube station and very suddenly had my red and white cane and communication book snatched from my hand. Just like that. When I got my spare cane out, that too was taken. I was left with no mobility aid and no means of communicating with the public. I was stranded - unable to walk, or ask for assistance, safely.
For the rest of this true story, please go to the BBC website!
(2005-12-16)