The local CNIB branch is hosting the second annual Dining in the Dark event Saturday at the Coast Inn of the North where blindfolded guests have an opportunity to explore different flavours and aromas of a variety of foods specifically chosen for the event by the executive chef.
The event has been designed to offer people a better understanding of the impact of vision loss, while raising funds for programs and services provided to those in need in Prince George and across the province.
Celebrating its 100th year, CNIB, a non-profit organization, is hosting the unique local event, which is the only one of its kind in the province.
"Folks can expect to enjoy the lovely venue of the Coast Inn of the North during the fundraiser," Shalon Morrison, coordinator, philanthropy for CNIB, said. "Besides the dining experience we'll have a silent auction, live music and we just want folks to know that it's a great event to come out to because it's a unique experience. We also have a guest speaker who will share her personal story about her connection with CNIB."
Decades ago, Laura Ferguson used to volunteer with CNIB, then in 2001 she was employed by the non-profit organization and now uses their services here in Prince George.
"I've come full circle with CNIB," she said.
Ferguson first started noticing problems with her eyes about 10 years ago and after 10 surgeries and many other treatments she ultimately lost her vision completely which was caused by diabetic retinopathy.
"CNIB got me set up with a cane and did some mobility training and I was taught how to do things for myself," Ferguson said. "I come for the support group meeting every Tuesday because it's nice to have that connection. It's nice to have people you can speak with."
The last decade has been about adapting to the loss of vision and all that it means to Ferguson.
"You just have to keep moving forward," Ferguson said about her blindness. "At this point there are days that I really do quite well and then there are days when it stands in my way and then I fight with very deep depression from it. So for me I am fairly upbeat and get along with people and then there are days that I just kind of crash with it. I tend now to be on quite an emotional roller coaster. It's been six years that I have been completely blind. There's not even a glimmer of sight."
CNIB, a non-profit organization, provides physical aids to those who have a visual impairment, along with programs to support and advocate.
Ferguson was provided with the white cane, which is not only functional but also is a symbol to let others know she is blind.
"It's my lifeline," Ferguson said about her cane. She recently switched from a smaller tip of the cane to a larger one because she was getting caught up by the many cracks in the sidewalks she navigates around town.
"I call it my clown nose, because it's bright red and it makes moving along the sidewalks much easier," Ferguson said, who is currently living with her daughter, Shawna, 21. Ferguson also has two sons, Tyler, 29 and Bryce, 26 and gets lots of support from her family.
One of the many programs offered by CNIB offers home visits as part of rehabilitation where the person affected can learn new ways to cook, shop and manage the home, connect to devices and apps that make life a bit easier, training on how to use a white cane and even how to navigate within the community and use public transportation.
Ferguson was offered many little tips to help make every day tasks less daunting as an unsighted person. For example, Ferguson's shampoo and conditioner are in identical bottles so she puts an elastic band on her conditioner so there are no surprises.
Ferguson said she is very grateful to the local branch of the CNIB for all their support.
"They are who you turn to when your sight goes," Ferguson said. "It's a comfort to have a place to go for help."
Tickets to Dining in the Dark, where proceeds will go towards CNIB programs, are available at the CNIB office, 100-490 Quebec St. or by calling 250-563-1702. To start the 19+ event doors open at 6, dinner is at 7 p.m. at the Coast Inn of the North.
