The overwhelmingly positive reviews of the lodge prove its positive impact in creating spaces of relaxation and entertainment for the blind community: "I want to go back every summer. It gives me something to look forward to for the rest of the year".
"It's a wonderful place" says 80-year-old Miss Florence Richards, her face reflecting happy memories of her 12 day visit. "Ritchie" had not been away from the Vancouver CHIB residence for 14 years, and she loved every minute of her holiday. "I was so excited" she confides, "I had my bag packed for a week beforehand." How she spends happy hours recalling her wood times with others she met at the lodge.
The lodge offered a variety of activities, including offering many their first opportunity to learn to swim. As well, forest walks, crafts, and games were planned to both improve co-ordination and develop hearing all the while providing amusement. Since the Bowen Island Lodge was planned as an adjustment centre for the newly blind and their families, this approach combining enjoyment and therapy was very important.
Audio Description of Photo:
Audio Description of Photo:
Audio Description of Photo:
This "first-class hotel," with excellent meals and complete indoor-and-outdoor program, was available to blind persons and their families for $4 a day or as low as $1.50 a day for those who could not afford more.
The CNIB's island paradise was a new approach in recreation and rehabilitation for the blind. Those who have tried it are full of enthusiasm, stating: "I had the best time of my life; and I want to go back every summer, if I can. It gives me something to look forward to.”
Audio Description of Photo: