NATIONWIDE — Imagine a world you cannot see.

Despite that setback, millions of people who are blind or visually impaired won't let that stop them from living life to the fullest, thanks to a special game-changing tool.

Today, in Austin, we celebrate what’s known as "White Cane Day.”

It was first put in place October 15, 1964 when President Lyndon B. Johnson first issued the proclamation:

Now, Therefore, I, Lyndon B. Johnson, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 15, 1964, as White Cane Safety Day.

I urge civic and service organizations, schools, public bodies, and the media of public information to join in this observance with appropriate activities designed to promote continuing awareness of the significance of the white cane to blind persons.

I call upon all our citizens to make every effort to promote the safety and welfare of our blind persons on the streets and highways, and thereby to contribute to their independence of spirit and their capability for self-management.

To learn more about White Cane Day happenings in the Austin area, visit whitecaneday.org.