Diane ... I don't mean to be harsh ... but you need to stick up for yourself! No one else will do it for you.
I am not surprised that you were not
offered the option to pre-board. The gate agents at SWA are some of the busiest I have ever seen. Not only do they have to deal with everyday passenger problems, but they also have to herd an entire planeload of people off and onto a plane is the shortest turn-around time in the business. They are
amazing but they are not mind readers.
Don't be shy! If you have a need it is up to you to speak up and let your need be known. You need extra time to board and you need to pick a specific seat for your comfort. Hookairs if you can walk? Hookairs what other people in the "C" line think? Most people will realize that when they see you with a cane and those who don't ... Hookairs about them? You will never see those people again
.
As for the stowing of the cane ... it is probably unsafe for you to keep your cane. My guess is that it won't fit under the seat and in case of turbulence or emergency it would go flying if it is placed next to your DS. You should be able to buzz a flight attendant and have them bring you your cane when you need it. Let me make this clear: you are not "bothering them" by asking for your cane. The FA are there your safety and the safety of others. Serving Diet Coke is a sideline. You may also have to wait for the other passengers to debark before they bring your cane to you at the end of your flight. No biggie. Sometimes it's nice to relax a bit while everyone else hurries past you. If you're lucky they will be able to stow it in the overheard above you.
Best wishes for a safe and comfortable flight!
