Ann Jackson can no longer read, write or drive because of vision loss, but she has a clear vision for connecting people who live with similar challenges.

For that reason, she is passionate about boosting membership in the Victoria White Cane Club. The non-profit group will celebrate its 65th birthday with a strawberry tea on Wednesday (June 8).

B次元官网网址淚 just signed eight new members,B次元官网网址� said Jackson, club president.

That will boost the social factor at the clubB次元官网网址檚 twice-monthly gatherings held at the Canadian National Institute for the Blind in Victoria. Typically, about 12 people from Greater Victoria with various visual impairments have been regularly attending events.

B次元官网网址淚 just signed Dudley last year and now heB次元官网网址檚 on the executive,B次元官网网址� Jackson said beaming, turning to first vice-president, Dudley Rose.

Members come together to hear guest speakers and enjoy musical entertainment and outings. Jackson said their events are an opportunity to meet and laugh with others who understand B次元官网网址渂ecause their lifestyle has changed dramatically.B次元官网网址�

Members also share tips on improving their independence despite blindness or partial sight.

B次元官网网址淚 am completely independent,B次元官网网址� said Rose, who is also legally blind. B次元官网网址淭he first thing I learned was that it wasnB次元官网网址檛 the end of the world, but the beginning of a new one.B次元官网网址�

He shares that message with White Cane Club members, and hopes to inspire them to live life to the fullest.

B次元官网网址淵ouB次元官网网址檙e always learning from somebody how to use these eyes that youB次元官网网址檝e got.B次元官网网址�

The clubB次元官网网址檚 birthday tea is from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Victoria chapter of the CNIB, 2340 Richmond St. For details, please call 250-385-7687 or 250-383-3707.

emccracken@vicnews.com