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Monday marked the start of “White Cane Week,” a time to boost public consciousness in regards to the challenges dealing with individuals with imaginative and prescient loss.
Many blind individuals by no means depart their properties, however one group in Campbell River is attempting to alter that one roller at a time.
Bruce Laurie coaches the Campbell River blind curling staff, the one one on Vancouver Island and one in every of solely 4 in B.C.
He and some members of his staff had been in Parksville Monday, gauging the curiosity of native blind curlers.
“It’s a variety of enjoyable, and sadly, the blind individuals don’t get an opportunity to do a variety of actions as a result of it simply isn’t potential,” stated Laurie.
Laurie is searching for blind curlers and coaches from throughout the Island to assist set up blind curling outings and even groups.
Parksville’s Colin O’Brien is blind and tried curling for the primary time.
“It’s fascinating, and it looks like one thing I’d need to pursue and proceed. I’ll strive it once more and see if I can get higher,” he stated.
“They had been very affected person, and it’s fantastic. I’m actually, actually having fun with it as we speak,” added Ruth Bieber.
The Parksville Curling Club helps the drive to search out extra blind curling fanatics.
“It’s one thing to do within the winter and will get them out of the home and into the neighborhood and we’re going to open up a sheet for them right here on the membership if they need it,” stated membership president Tony Reinsch.
There are over 7,000 visually impaired individuals on the Island, and 40 per cent of them by no means depart their properties.
The individuals participating on Monday say curling is a good way to alter that.
“It’s very instructional and thrilling to be round different individuals with sight loss and to get out of the home,” stated Jeremy Steenberg, who has 5 per cent sight in a single eye. “It’s my second yr on the Campbell River staff, and I’m actually having fun with it.”
Laurie is devoted to serving to blind individuals on the Island get into curling.
“For those who’re in any respect in a position sufficient to get out, we are going to assist you to check out this sport,” he stated.
You possibly can attain him on the Campbell River Curling Club.
READ ALSO: Schneider, Grandy win B.C. Curling Championships in Esquimalt
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