At conferences on my own

There used to be a time when I absolutely dreaded going to conferences on my own. I felt so alone as I struggled to do such things as carry my luggage upon arrival at the hotel, find my room, familiarize myself with my room, and then go out there and make friends.

I used to really be uncomfortable going down to breakfast on my own or doing the same at dinner time, alas! Time has been good to me though and with a bit of practice, motivating myself, and learning how to ask, things have improved greatly for me. The trick for me is to always make sure that I get to know the staff at the reception desk and to familiarize them with my circumstance. That is, to let them know that as a Blind person there are things that I would need help with.

So I make friends with them and then the rest for me becomes easier. My experience is that once you ask for help then help is there. Tell a staff member at the desk that you need help with navigating the remote for their television and help is rendered. Ask them to show you where the dining room is and they are always willing to be of service. Ask them to show you where the swimming pool is and bingo! They are only too willing to be of assistance.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day and encouraging you to go out there and share my blogs with others. Come visit me at www.sterlingcreations.ca.