I'm not in the same situation as you but didn't want this left with no replies (this board is almost extinct now).

I don't think you are over reacting - unless people have gone through the same thing then they simply don't understand how huge these things can be even if they are expected.

I do not have the same problem as you, but I am blind in one eye and have low vision in the other eye. I was recently advised to use a cane for mobility, too.

Hi. I fought using a cane for many years for a few reasons. Happily, however, I got over my reluctance and have been using a cane for many years now. Having and using a cane has provided me with the ability to navigate on my own, and gives me another opportunity to not literally lean on those around me (where I want to keep them :) Initially I contacted our state's blind commission and received very little input, and found the trainer that came out had little to no understanding of not having vision. Still, I would still suggest that someone with visual issues contact their agency to see what kind of help is available. One of the best decisions I made was to start listening to books, a wonderful free service provided by the Library of Congress; and, highly suggest this service to others. Over the many years of blindness I've learned some tricks to make thing easier, but think one of the first steps (no pun intended) with utilizing a cane (I use the roller ball tip which, I think, allows me to move about easier and faster). Hope that you'll give it a try -- be patient and I'm guessing you'll catch on swiftly and be pleased with your new-found "freedom." Best of luck to you. k

Somewhat in a similar situation with Macular Degeneration I cannot ride my bike any more (150 miles a week) nor drive reading is very hard on the computer impossible on paper.
Walk very carefully around stairs and curbs.

But I am very active and want to stay independent so I ride public transportation carefully but people don't know that I am impaired.

So I read using a cane let people know of your impairment and then it is easier to navigate with people around you.
Still don't have it yet because of course I am fighting the thought of a cane!

Understand your reluctance, though I believe if you give the cane a fair shot, you will find its benefits far outweigh any negatives. For Christmas I received new cane with the updated roller ball, and I find it a huge upgrade. The semi-round (flat on the sides) tip caught on breaks in the sidewalk so severely that I tore muscles ... the newer fully round tip travels much smoother, making its use much more comfortable. So, because of my personal experiences and a long history with using a cane, I would recommend the round tip. My cane takes me over snow and sand on the beach, shoulders comfortably attached. Good luck to you. Peace, k