The white cane – a universal symbol of mobility for people with low vision – can mean very different things for the athletes who use it.
For Para-biathlete Taryn Dickens, it represents confidence and independence. Training towards the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, she says the cane gave her back freedom.
“I use my cane as much as I can … it just gave me independence back,” Dickens said. “I stand up straight and feel like I can own the space I’m in without apologising.”
She hopes it sparks more open conversations. “When I grew up, it was shameful to ask about disability. But you can do it—just don’t be a jerk when you ask.”
For goalball player Caitlin Hannen-Williams, 20, the story is different. She relies mostly on her guide dog and admits she struggles with how canes are perceived.
“Before people even get to know you as a strong, independent athlete, it can feel like [using a cane] undermines your independence,” she said.
A Youth World Championship silver medallist and national champion, Hannen-Williams is eyeing Los Angeles 2028 while studying film at Curtin University.
Though their perspectives differ, both athletes show how attitudes towards mobility aids shape the way they are used—a reminder that the white cane carries deeply personal meaning across Para-sport.