Life through Alan’s eyes: blind man walks nearly 4 miles daily in Whiteville

WHITEVILLE, NC (WWAY) — A Whiteville man is doing the walk of life despite its obstacles. 

“My blindness don’t stop me,” Alan Duncan said.

Meet Alan Duncan. He is known as “Whiteville’s walker” and has been for decades. He is 73 years old and walks close to four miles daily. An already difficult task for someone of Alan’s age is made more difficult by his lack of sight. 

Alan was born blind. 

“I like to be independent and do for myself what I’m able to do,” Alan said. 

Alan said his doctor said his daily walks are what keeps him so healthy. He prioritizes exercise but also safety. He makes sure to walk a familiar path, wear a reflective vest, and listen to the sound of traffic before crossing a street. 

Alan said the community is very supportive and often stops to help him cross the street. 

“Some of them will help me cross and get out of their vehicles and help me. If they don’t want to do it, I still stand there and wait. I just wait till they stop,” Alan said. 

Alan has also made impressions on the lives of children. He worked at Edgewood Elementary School for more than 30 years. 

When WWAY asked Alan if he has any advice for people afraid to step out of their comfort zone, he said with confidence, “do the best you can and keep on doing it.” 

If you ever see a white cane approaching a highway, it’s important to remember these individuals have the right-of-way at all times.