Warning info for Universal GAP vs. Disney GAC for autism issues

[sharadoc]

Hi all,

We got back a little over a week ago from a nice 2 week trip to Florida. This trip we thought we would go to Universal Studios for the kids - see Barney, ET, Shrek, Jimmy Neutron, Dr. Seuss. We thought they would like it. My DS has autism/PDD-NOS and we are so grateful for the GAC at Disney - it makes our trip possible and we are able to enjoy it.

Before I bought my tickets, I called Universal and asked about their GAC equivalent. They told me we would be given a pass to go into the "fast" line. I felt assured that it would work for us.

When we got to the park, we went to Guest Services and were given a "family room" card for 2 of our party. The person explained that 2 of the party would have to wait in line (regular line) and the other one with my DS would wait in a separate area, then be called into line when the party got to the front.

Needless to say, I was VERY annoyed. I told them what I was told on the phone, and that the family room idea wouldn't work for us - that my DS would get EXTREME ANXIETY if our party was split up for that amount of time. Finally, the person relented and gave us "complimentary" FOTL passes for all 4 of us.

That didn't work as well as a Disney GAC. Primarily, the FOTL queue is totally random and not based on any time of day. So, anyone who has that access at any time can get in line. That meant the "fast" lane was sometimes as long as the regular line, or took much longer than a Disney fastpass line.

For some of you, the family room idea could work. I know all our kids are different. For us, it would have been a disaster and we couldn't have gone on anything. Just be aware of the difference. Don't expect Disney service and Disney accommodation for your child's issues.

If you have any other questions, I can try to help.

[pmessy]

Hi all,

We got back a little over a week ago from a nice 2 week trip to Florida. This trip we thought we would go to Universal Studios for the kids - see Barney, ET, Shrek, Jimmy Neutron, Dr. Seuss. We thought they would like it. My DS has autism/PDD-NOS and we are so grateful for the GAC at Disney - it makes our trip possible and we are able to enjoy it.

Before I bought my tickets, I called Universal and asked about their GAC equivalent. They told me we would be given a pass to go into the "fast" line. I felt assured that it would work for us.

When we got to the park, we went to Guest Services and were given a "family room" card for 2 of our party. The person explained that 2 of the party would have to wait in line (regular line) and the other one with my DS would wait in a separate area, then be called into line when the party got to the front.

Needless to say, I was VERY annoyed. I told them what I was told on the phone, and that the family room idea wouldn't work for us - that my DS would get EXTREME ANXIETY if our party was split up for that amount of time. Finally, the person relented and gave us "complimentary" FOTL passes for all 4 of us.

That didn't work as well as a Disney GAC. Primarily, the FOTL queue is totally random and not based on any time of day. So, anyone who has that access at any time can get in line. That meant the "fast" lane was sometimes as long as the regular line, or took much longer than a Disney fastpass line.

For some of you, the family room idea could work. I know all our kids are different. For us, it would have been a disaster and we couldn't have gone on anything. Just be aware of the difference. Don't expect Disney service and Disney accommodation for your child's issues.

If you have any other questions, I can try to help.

I am shocked to hear how you were treated at Universal as we as a family had the exact opposite happen to us! We were travelling with our deaf blind daughter and when we went to Guest Relations we go an express gap entry card that gave us access to the fast pass line and we could go on the rides as many times as we wanted. We were there from Aug 15th to 31st so the parks were very busy but we never had to wait longer than 5 mins which was perfect as DD would just not understand a long queue. The second day we went we had to go back to guest relations as they do not issue you with a GAC like they do at Disney but the guy told us that if we planned on another day at Universal all we would have to do was produce the old express gap entry card and they would re-issue us with another one on any day we cared to return. So I can honestly say we were treated as good as we were treated by Disney with the GAC. Maybe you were just unlucky with the person who you got on Guest Relations that morning. Hope it didnt take from your trip...we are still recovering from ours :banana:

[rie'smom]

I am shocked to hear how you were treated at Universal as we as a family had the exact opposite happen to us! We were travelling with our deaf blind daughter and when we went to Guest Relations we go an express gap entry card that gave us access to the fast pass line and we could go on the rides as many times as we wanted. We were there from Aug 15th to 31st so the parks were very busy but we never had to wait longer than 5 mins which was perfect as DD would just not understand a long queue. The second day we went we had to go back to guest relations as they do not issue you with a GAC like they do at Disney but the guy told us that if we planned on another day at Universal all we would have to do was produce the old express gap entry card and they would re-issue us with another one on any day we cared to return. So I can honestly say we were treated as good as we were treated by Disney with the GAC. Maybe you were just unlucky with the person who you got on Guest Relations that morning. Hope it didnt take from your trip...we are still recovering from ours :banana:

Our experience was like yours. We took my daughter's nannie and her son who is autistic to WDW and Universal. Universal was MUCH easier. We were a party of 6 and all of us received the express gap entry card.

[sharadoc]

I am shocked to hear how you were treated at Universal as we as a family had the exact opposite happen to us! We were travelling with our deaf blind daughter and when we went to Guest Relations we go an express gap entry card that gave us access to the fast pass line and we could go on the rides as many times as we wanted. We were there from Aug 15th to 31st so the parks were very busy but we never had to wait longer than 5 mins which was perfect as DD would just not understand a long queue. The second day we went we had to go back to guest relations as they do not issue you with a GAC like they do at Disney but the guy told us that if we planned on another day at Universal all we would have to do was produce the old express gap entry card and they would re-issue us with another one on any day we cared to return. So I can honestly say we were treated as good as we were treated by Disney with the GAC. Maybe you were just unlucky with the person who you got on Guest Relations that morning. Hope it didnt take from your trip...we are still recovering from ours :banana:


That's good to know and I'm glad it worked out great for you. I think our issue was specifically a GAP for autism. They created these family rooms to allow the kids to wait in a quiet place. I wonder if they think too many kids get a GAC for autism who really don't need it and feel they give a better alternative solution for the need to wait outside of big long lines.

Yeah, we're still tired. But the heat was a bigger deal for us. That and the crowds at all the Disney restaurants because of free dining. I think we're definitely back to the January timeframe for our trips.

[mamaminnie]

I'm sorry that you had a less than positive experience at Universal, I hope you still had a wonderful trip.

I have to agree with the other posters, I have found Universal's GAP system much better than WDW's-- we hold AP's to both parks.

I have found the FOTL system works great for us, I've never waited than long for anything.

[ireland_nicole]

I don't have anything useful to add, just wanted to thank you for the info.:goodvibes

[MELISAZACK]

We were there just last week and had the same issues -my son is similar with disabilites.. we were told at Island of Adv. that they are a very ADA friendly park and that would have to surfice or I could purchase a Express pass.
I stared at him a min and he just kept this stupid smile on his face...
I said really that won't work for me but if that is all you can offer I guess you leave me no choice... I took it never used it though.. lines were bad for what they would ride.. but then we walked over to Universal studios... my dad suggest going to there guest relations and ask.. WOW what a difference explained to the girl there - told them what I had for Disney and instantly a express pass... no mention of a family room pass and she hoped this would help us out!!! and lines were longer over there so it did help!!

My suggestion for those that need a GAC at universal visit guest relations on Universal Studio side for it... much more understanding.

[kaytieeldr]

Okay, I understand there are many different situations that might require alternative response from the business - but realistically, giving a front of the line pass at USF/IOA isn't equal treatment. It gives the party with the otherly-abled member/s a distinct advantage over Guests visiting without anyone with a special need.

While the Family Room process didn't work for the OP, it's been in existence at IOA since that park opened, and so, likely, at US as well. I have observed exactly the same thing at Disneyland. It makes absolute sense - when part of your party waits in a special area while the rest goes through the regular line, then the entire party rides the attraction under conditions equal to all the other Guests waiting in the regular line. Heck, I experienced something similar at Adventurers Club the weekend PI closed :sad: - I was allowed to wait at the top of the stairs using an ECV, while my friends had to get into the lonnnnnnnng line. Once they reached the door, our entire party was allowed in.

I realize that's not what most people want to hear, given that each child is special and more important to the parent than is any other person - but, really it's as equal as is reasonable.

[Charleyann]

Okay, I understand there are many different situations that might require alternative response from the business - but realistically, giving a front of the line pass at USF/IOA isn't equal treatment. It gives the party with the otherly-abled member/s a distinct advantage over Guests visiting without anyone with a special need.

While the Family Room process didn't work for the OP, it's been in existence at IOA since that park opened, and so, likely, at US as well. I have observed exactly the same thing at Disneyland. It makes absolute sense - when part of your party waits in a special area while the rest goes through the regular line, then the entire party rides the attraction under conditions equal to all the other Guests waiting in the regular line. Heck, I experienced something similar at Adventurers Club the weekend PI closed :sad: - I was allowed to wait at the top of the stairs using an ECV, while my friends had to get into the lonnnnnnnng line. Once they reached the door, our entire party was allowed in.

I realize that's not what most people want to hear, given that each child is special and more important to the parent than is any other person - but, really it's as equal as is reasonable.


I agree 100%!:thumbsup2 I have a child with a life-threatening and fatal illness. He has to wait.........


Charleyann

[SueM in MN]

Okay, I understand there are many different situations that might require alternative response from the business - but realistically, giving a front of the line pass at USF/IOA isn't equal treatment. It gives the party with the otherly-abled member/s a distinct advantage over Guests visiting without anyone with a special need.

While the Family Room process didn't work for the OP, it's been in existence at IOA since that park opened, and so, likely, at US as well. I have observed exactly the same thing at Disneyland. It makes absolute sense - when part of your party waits in a special area while the rest goes through the regular line, then the entire party rides the attraction under conditions equal to all the other Guests waiting in the regular line.
I agree that a front of the line is pass in not equal treatment - it is superior treatment. It does not have to be given as an accommodation; they can choose to offer it, but it is not required. They are required to provide access that is as equal as reasonably possible, without adding unneccessary impediments to access.

The Family Room process does work for some people, but I know others who would be willing to wait in a Family Room environment, but it won't work unless their whole family can wait together. So, it is not an accommodation that will work for everyone if only one or two can be there and the rest have to wait in line.
Our experience at Universal is old, but in our experience, they did not do a good job with multiple disabilities. They accommodated our DD's wheelchair, but stated that they did not need to provide any other accommodation since she had a wheelchair and the lines were accessible. This did not meet our DD's needs.

[rie'smom]

I agree that a front of the line is pass in not equal treatment - it is superior treatment. It does not have to be given as an accommodation; they can choose to offer it, but it is not required. They are required to provide access that is as equal as reasonably possible, without adding unneccessary impediments to access.

The Family Room process does work for some people, but I know others who would be willing to wait in a Family Room environment, but it won't work unless their whole family can wait together. So, it is not an accommodation that will work for everyone if only one or two can be there and the rest have to wait in line.
Our experience at Universal is old, but in our experience, they did not do a good job with multiple disabilities. They accommodated our DD's wheelchair, but stated that they did not need to provide any other accommodation since she had a wheelchair and the lines were accessible. This did not meet our DD's needs.

I'm sorry that your family had a bad experience. Thankfully, Universal has changed the way they deal with disabilities. They were absolutely fabulous in April and again last November.

[sl_underwood]

Thanks for posting. I have a question. When we go this spring, he will get a pass at WDW to use his special needs stroller as a wheelchair, can he do this at Universal?

[SueM in MN]

Thanks for posting. I have a question. When we go this spring, he will get a pass at WDW to use his special needs stroller as a wheelchair, can he do this at Universal?
Yes, he can.
There is some information about Universal in the disABILITIES FAQs thread. The 'stroller as a wheelchair' works the same in WDW as in Universal.

At WDW, you may get a sticker (kind of similar to an airline baggage sticker tag) rather than a Guest Assistance Card that says you may use the stroller as a wheelchair.

[KPeveler]

I agree that a front of the line is pass in not equal treatment - it is superior treatment. It does not have to be given as an accommodation; they can choose to offer it, but it is not required. They are required to provide access that is as equal as reasonably possible, without adding unneccessary impediments to access.

The Family Room process does work for some people, but I know others who would be willing to wait in a Family Room environment, but it won't work unless their whole family can wait together. So, it is not an accommodation that will work for everyone if only one or two can be there and the rest have to wait in line.
Our experience at Universal is old, but in our experience, they did not do a good job with multiple disabilities. They accommodated our DD's wheelchair, but stated that they did not need to provide any other accommodation since she had a wheelchair and the lines were accessible. This did not meet our DD's needs.

That is similar to what I have heard. I wonder what they would do for me, as I cannot wait in the sun, and my experience is that most queues are outdoors? My fiancee cannot wait in line for me, as it is only the two of us. I must have her with me, and cannot wait alone (too dangerous/impossible with my conditions)... This has given me much to think about before ever attempting US or IOA.

[ireland_nicole]

KPevlar, I think if you stayed on site you'd be in good shape. Our plan if we go next year is to stay onsite for one night which gives 2 days of unlimited express entrance; this isn't disability/accomodation based, just a perk for hotel guests. That way you have reasonably easy access to the parks; I just have to make sure whether the water taxis are w/c accessible; and you know in advance that you'll be able to use the express queue. Plus, I hear that the hotels are really nice:) it just seems easier in the long run than spending all the money to get there and then having to wonder if the accomodation offered is actually going to give equal access or not.

[amzking]

When we went there two years ago they offerred the family room but I explained that the problem with my DS is not the crowds, its the waiting, he cannot tolerate waiting an hour for a ride due to his disability. If he was taken away from a ride to wait in a room he would have a complete meltdown. They then offerred me the pass (can't remember the name) that is basically the same as a fastpass/GAC, so there is some waiting not much. Hopefully I will be able to get the same thing in October when we go for a day trip with family.

[jodifla]

When we went there two years ago they offerred the family room but I explained that the problem with my DS is not the crowds, its the waiting, he cannot tolerate waiting an hour for a ride due to his disability. If he was taken away from a ride to wait in a room he would have a complete meltdown. They then offerred me the pass (can't remember the name) that is basically the same as a fastpass/GAC, so there is some waiting not much. Hopefully I will be able to get the same thing in October when we go for a day trip with family.

I really didn't think they offered skipping the line....just a more comfortable place to wait.

[SueM in MN]

KPevlar, I think if you stayed on site you'd be in good shape. Our plan if we go next year is to stay onsite for one night which gives 2 days of unlimited express entrance; this isn't disability/accomodation based, just a perk for hotel guests. That way you have reasonably easy access to the parks; I just have to make sure whether the water taxis are w/c accessible; and you know in advance that you'll be able to use the express queue. Plus, I hear that the hotels are really nice:) it just seems easier in the long run than spending all the money to get there and then having to wonder if the accomodation offered is actually going to give equal access or not.
::yes::
Once the Harry Potter area has been open a year or 2, we may do just that.

[ireland_nicole]

That's pretty much the only reason we're going- because Mommy and Daddy want to be totally selfish and see WWOHP. Frankly, the whole Universal thing doesn't appeal to me, but we're huge HP fans in this house. (Not nearly so much as the mouse, but still)... so we figure we'll do everything in our power to make the little detour "do-able". So if you're going next year, end of Sept/beginning of Oct. (depends on FD) maybe we'll see ya.

[sharadoc]

Okay, I understand there are many different situations that might require alternative response from the business - but realistically, giving a front of the line pass at USF/IOA isn't equal treatment. It gives the party with the otherly-abled member/s a distinct advantage over Guests visiting without anyone with a special need.

While the Family Room process didn't work for the OP, it's been in existence at IOA since that park opened, and so, likely, at US as well. I have observed exactly the same thing at Disneyland. It makes absolute sense - when part of your party waits in a special area while the rest goes through the regular line, then the entire party rides the attraction under conditions equal to all the other Guests waiting in the regular line. Heck, I experienced something similar at Adventurers Club the weekend PI closed :sad: - I was allowed to wait at the top of the stairs using an ECV, while my friends had to get into the lonnnnnnnng line. Once they reached the door, our entire party was allowed in.

I realize that's not what most people want to hear, given that each child is special and more important to the parent than is any other person - but, really it's as equal as is reasonable.

I agree 100%!:thumbsup2 I have a child with a life-threatening and fatal illness. He has to wait.........


Charleyann

I agree that a front of the line is pass in not equal treatment - it is superior treatment. It does not have to be given as an accommodation; they can choose to offer it, but it is not required. They are required to provide access that is as equal as reasonably possible, without adding unneccessary impediments to access.

The Family Room process does work for some people, but I know others who would be willing to wait in a Family Room environment, but it won't work unless their whole family can wait together. So, it is not an accommodation that will work for everyone if only one or two can be there and the rest have to wait in line.
Our experience at Universal is old, but in our experience, they did not do a good job with multiple disabilities. They accommodated our DD's wheelchair, but stated that they did not need to provide any other accommodation since she had a wheelchair and the lines were accessible. This did not meet our DD's needs.

I think that's why those of us who have autism in our families love Disney so much. Yes, it's special treatment. Our children have issues that cause complete and total meltdowns, anxiety and over-the-top reactions to things that typical children may just whine about. So most of the time we stay home and go nowhere and do nothing. But, Disney accommodates our children's disabilities and gives us the chance to live life like other people do, even if it's just for a week. We get to go out as a family, have fun and laugh, like most families get to do any day of the week.

Yes, what we get could be construed as special treatment and it may annoy the heck out of some people, but I would wait in line for four hours if my son could live life like a regular kid. He can't though, and going to Disney World is one of the few chances he's had to really enjoy himself.

Usually everyone is very supportive on here of disability stories. I was only trying to warn people about what to expect, since what I was told on here before my trip was different from what I experienced. I'm sorry that some of you don't think we deserved what I expected to receive.

[Charleyann]

So a child with a fatal illness need not these special treatments ? These kids and their families have the same needs. They of all people to need to laugh....when your child is dying....We need laughter. All we have is time. Your child may meltdown today, but he has tomorrow. What we have is a written letter! We have Hospitalizations, pain and we certainly don't go out often and we too have to stay home often not because our children melt down but because they are too sick or in pain...yet they wait.

Yet, because yours has Autism, he triumps over the other kids?


I say it should be equal across the board....

All the best to you and your family!

Charleyann

[rie'smom]

So a child with a fatal illness need not these special treatments ? These kids and their families have the same needs. They of all people to need to laugh....when your child is dying....We need laughter. All we have is time. Your child may meltdown today, but he has tomorrow. What we have is a written letter! We have Hospitalizations, pain and we certainly don't go out often and we too have to stay home often not because our children melt down but because they are too sick or in pain...yet they wait.

Yet, because yours has Autism, he triumps over the other kids?


I say it should be equal across the board....

All the best to you and your family!

Charleyann

I didn't take the post to mean that her child trumps yours. She was explaining her situation.
Disney makes the rules. I'm sure that if a child has a terminal illness or even a severe but not terminal illness, Disney would go out of the way to make sure the child and his/her family has a magical time. I'm sorry that your family is going through something so sad.

[dclfun]

For a child with a terminal or life-threatening illness, if they choose to go to Disney for their wish trip, then on that trip they DO get FOTL access. That FOTL access is limited to children on wish trips only so if they are fortunate enough to be able to visit Disney again, then they no longer get the same special treatment. I really can't imagine anyone begrudging someone on their ONE wish trip getting special treatment, FOTL, or any perks available. The parks have to offer equal access, not BETTER access, which is what Universal seems to be giving to some. Most people who live with someone who has a severe disability or who has that disability themselves, whether it be autism, a terminal illness, or limited mobility, etc. would agree that their lives are far from the norm and that having an accommodation at Disney or elsewhere makes a huge difference, but there isn't one type of disability that "trumps" others. I don't think there's an easy solution that would make everyone happy.---Kathy

[Hannathy]

For a child with a terminal or life-threatening illness, if they choose to go to Disney for their wish trip, then on that trip they DO get FOTL access. That FOTL access is limited to children on wish trips only so if they are fortunate enough to be able to visit Disney again, then they no longer get the same special treatment. I really can't imagine anyone begrudging someone on their ONE wish trip getting special treatment, FOTL, or any perks available. The parks have to offer equal access, not BETTER access, which is what Universal seems to be giving to some. Most people who live with someone who has a severe disability or who has that disability themselves, whether it be autism, a terminal illness, or limited mobility, etc. would agree that their lives are far from the norm and that having an accommodation at Disney or elsewhere makes a huge difference, but there isn't one type of disability that "trumps" others. I don't think there's an easy solution that would make everyone happy.---Kathy

I think what she is saying is that the wish kids get 1 trip and the autistic go over and over again and expect FOTL each time. I agree except for a wish trip it should be equal to everyone else not special.

[MELISAZACK]

I think what some are missing is that the "family room" doesn't solve the issue for the austic child - sometimes it creates a whole NEW issue with the seperation part. So it doesn't help it doesn't fix what can and usually will happen. So just because folks that that is the "right" answer to our problem and it is the fairest way its not - your still putting the child into stress.
My other thought is if you all want us to stand in line for the long waits with our disable child remember when the meltdown starts and the screaming starts the fits are going and he if tyring to "escape" or move everyone and the world that he can't stand seeing at the moment.. and Me and my DH are now spent and patients are exteremly thin make sure you dont' bat an eye at us or comment in anyway on the situation at hand becasue you all are stating you feel we should be treated like everyone else without a disability unlike autism...:thumbsup2

[Hannathy]

I think what some are missing is that the "family room" doesn't solve the issue for the austic child - sometimes it creates a whole NEW issue with the seperation part. So it doesn't help it doesn't fix what can and usually will happen. So just because folks that that is the "right" answer to our problem and it is the fairest way its not - your still putting the child into stress.
My other thought is if you all want us to stand in line for the long waits with our disable child remember when the meltdown starts and the screaming starts the fits are going and he if tyring to "escape" or move everyone and the world that he can't stand seeing at the moment.. and Me and my DH are now spent and patients are exteremly thin make sure you dont' bat an eye at us or comment in anyway on the situation at hand becasue you all are stating you feel we should be treated like everyone else without a disability unlike autism...:thumbsup2

Wow no one is saying stand in line with a child who will "meltdown" and hurt others, they are saying there is a separate area to keep the child away from crowds BUT the rest of the party will have to wait until it would be your turn if you went thru the line -remember equal not better. I'm sure if you would rather wait outside and then enter the separate waiting area closer to when the rest of your party gets toward the front that would also work. I don't understand why this is unworkable.

[KPeveler]

Wow no one is saying stand in line with a child who will "meltdown" and hurt others, they are saying there is a separate area to keep the child away from crowds BUT the rest of the party will have to wait until it would be your turn if you went thru the line -remember equal not better. I'm sure if you would rather wait outside and then enter the separate waiting area closer to when the rest of your party gets toward the front that would also work. I don't understand why this is unworkable.

There are some children who become very upset when they see either the rest of their family getting in line they are not, or become separated from the rest of their party.

I am curious what they do when the person with the disability is only travelling with one person. I know there are times I cannot wait in a regular queue (sensory problems, sun issues, whatever), but I only travel with my fiancee. I cannot be separated from her because she is also my "PCA" as such. Most days I cannot open a bottle of drinking water without help, so I will have to contact Universal and ask...

What Busch Gardens does with some rides that are not accessible is they give a "return time" much like a fastpass that is equal to the wait of the standby time. Then the family can wait together wherever is comfortable for the person with the disability and come back. They still have to wait, they are just doing it in a different spot. I should mention this policy was created for guests with wheelchairs in non-accessible lines (where the person has to go in the exit anyway and so the party used to not wait at all), but it may work for other things too...

[rie'smom]

It really doesn't matter if some do not like the policy because it is not our policy, it is the park's policy. I do not have a child with a serious disabillity, She's ADHD but has no problems with lines, so we've never had to request a GAC for her.

I do not think that it's my place to judge what others feel is necessary for their child. None of us live with these families.

Does it really matter that much if a few people need special assistance? I thank God that none of my children have suffered from a disability that requires special treatment and certainly do not begrudge this to families that do need it.

[SueM in MN]

I think the OP's intent was to just let others know that things might not be what they expect, based on past experience.

I don't think there will ever be an accommodation that fits everyone.
That is one of the reasons that GAC cards are not supposed to be 'one size fits all'.
It's easy for everyone to see their own situation and what may or may not work for them. Sometimes it's hard to look from another angle and see how things work or don't work for someone else.

There are no perfect solutions that always allow total access and never allow special treatment. In a lot of cases, any 'special' treatment 'advantage' is balanced out by times when the 'special treatment' leads to a disadvantage, like a longer wait.

We may not live in a perfect world or visit perfect parks. I think we can all agree that those of us with disabilities or family members with disabilities would give up anything that might be look like an advantage to not need to use it.

[dclfun]

I think what she is saying is that the wish kids get 1 trip and the autistic go over and over again and expect FOTL each time. I agree except for a wish trip it should be equal to everyone else not special.

I did know what the poster meant. I'm not sure those with an autistic child are *expecting* FOTL every time, just a way for their child to tolerate getting to an attraction without having a meltdown. Sounds like Universal's solution for some now is to have a family waiting room and this might be a good idea also for others who need to be out of the sun, in a/c or have difficulty maneuvering equipment in a queue line. We all need to consider the fact that we've not walked a mile in everyone else's shoes and do our best to have our own good time without worrying about what seems like special treatment for some. I agree with Sue and think most of us would gladly give up any perceived advantage or special treatment just to enjoy the parks w/o any kind of disability.---Kathy

[disneywithfive]

does it really matter that much if a few people need special assistance?

amen!!!

[a1tinkfans]

Hi all,

We got back a little over a week ago from a nice 2 week trip to Florida. This trip we thought we would go to Universal Studios for the kids - see Barney, ET, Shrek, Jimmy Neutron, Dr. Seuss. We thought they would like it. My DS has autism/PDD-NOS and we are so grateful for the GAC at Disney - it makes our trip possible and we are able to enjoy it.

Before I bought my tickets, I called Universal and asked about their GAC equivalent. They told me we would be given a pass to go into the "fast" line. I felt assured that it would work for us.

When we got to the park, we went to Guest Services and were given a "family room" card for 2 of our party. The person explained that 2 of the party would have to wait in line (regular line) and the other one with my DS would wait in a separate area, then be called into line when the party got to the front.

Needless to say, I was VERY annoyed. I told them what I was told on the phone, and that the family room idea wouldn't work for us - that my DS would get EXTREME ANXIETY if our party was split up for that amount of time. Finally, the person relented and gave us "complimentary" FOTL passes for all 4 of us.

That didn't work as well as a Disney GAC. Primarily, the FOTL queue is totally random and not based on any time of day. So, anyone who has that access at any time can get in line. That meant the "fast" lane was sometimes as long as the regular line, or took much longer than a Disney fastpass line.

For some of you, the family room idea could work. I know all our kids are different. For us, it would have been a disaster and we couldn't have gone on anything. Just be aware of the difference. Don't expect Disney service and Disney accommodation for your child's issues.

If you have any other questions, I can try to help.

Thank you for posting your experience. :grouphug: It will atleast give others a heads up as to what MAY happen!

[dclfun]

It really doesn't matter if some do not like the policy because it is not our policy, it is the park's policy. I do not have a child with a serious disabillity, She's ADHD but has no problems with lines, so we've never had to request a GAC for her.

I do not think that it's my place to judge what others feel is necessary for their child. None of us live with these families.

Does it really matter that much if a few people need special assistance? I thank God that none of my children have suffered from a disability that requires special treatment and certainly do not begrudge this to families that do need it.

I don't think any of us here think it matters that much if a few people need special assistance. I think what some people feel though is that the *same* special assistance is not offered to some who need it. In the case of Charleyann, for instance, she mentioned that her child with a fatal and life threatening illness cannot get the same consideration. That hurts.---Kathy

[jodifla]

OVerall, I think expecting to go to the front of the line because of a disability is unrealistic and rather unfair.

I think Disney does try to work with those with disabilities. When we were there in January, there was a family with a girl in a wheelchair who was extremely disabled. They told us they were pretty much waived to the front of every line.

[dclfun]

OVerall, I think expecting to go to the front of the line because of a disability is unrealistic and rather unfair.

I think Disney does try to work with those with disabilities. When we were there in January, there was a family with a girl in a wheelchair who was extremely disabled. They told us they were pretty much waived to the front of every line.

I agree. The issue for some is that a child who has a fatal illness might not appear severely disabled- there are lots of invisible illnesses and disabilities that could possibly warrant special consideration. Only the parent and family would know, and as such that family might not get waved to the front of every line if their child doesn't "look" severely disabled. Per Guest Services, FOTL is only for medically fragile children on a MAW trip Unless the child mentioned in the example above was on a MAW trip, then an exception was made when most are told that no exceptions can be made. I have no problem with someone going before me or getting FOTL if they need it. I guess there were abuses and requests that caused GS to stop giving out that type of GAC. ---Kathy

[Charleyann]

I don't think any of us here think it matters that much if a few people need special assistance. I think what some people feel though is that the *same* special assistance is not offered to some who need it. In the case of Charleyann, for instance, she mentioned that her child with a fatal and life threatening illness cannot get the same consideration. That hurts.---Kathy

I merely expressed this view as the OP came on and said Disney sees her Autistic Child as Special treatment and that is why they get front of the line access. That's because their children are autistic they often have to stay at home....because of meltdowns etc....

My point was to make it clear..her's wasn't the only child special. That sick kids, dying kids, chronically ill kids often don't get to go out either. Same could be said for any person with a disability....

One group is not an more worthy of special treatment, then any other disability.

We wait for lines and again will wait, God Willing he gives us another Christmas!!!!

What got to me was " Egotistical Manner" not that her child was FOTLA....


God Bless Everyone!

Charleyann:santa:

[Beccabunny]

When did the OP ever say Disney sees her child as special? No need for the name-calling, Charleyann. Berating the OP as "egotistical" is unnecessary and unfair. By the way, did you ever ask for an accommodation for your child's needs? If you did, you should get a GAC that meets those legitimate needs. If you don't think your child needs any particular accommodations, that's fine, but you're not in a position to say whether or not any other child does or does not. Nobody is saying one group of children is more special than any others. However, many children with autism cannot tolerate waits. It's part of the disability. Others, like my own, can handle some waiting. That's why the GAC is issued based on needs, not a diagnosis.

[Charleyann]

When did the OP ever say Disney sees her child as special? No need for the name-calling, Charleyann. Berating the OP as "egotistical" is unnecessary and unfair. By the way, did you ever ask for an accommodation for your child's needs? If you did, you should get a GAC that meets those legitimate needs. If you don't think your child needs any particular accommodations, that's fine, but you're not in a position to say whether or not any other child does or does not. Nobody is saying one group of children is more special than any others. However, many children with autism cannot tolerate waits. It's part of the disability. Others, like my own, can handle some waiting. That's why the GAC is issued based on needs, not a diagnosis.

Wow....Back the bus up! No need to get your nickers in a knot!!!!

From her own words :
"I think that's why those of us who have autism in our families love Disney so much. Yes, it's special treatment. Our children have issues that cause complete and total meltdowns, anxiety and over-the-top reactions to things that typical children may just whine about. So most of the time we stay home and go nowhere and do nothing. But, Disney accommodates our children's disabilities and gives us the chance to live life like other people do, even if it's just for a week. We get to go out as a family, have fun and laugh, like most families get to do any day of the week.

Yes, what we get could be construed as special treatment and it may annoy the heck out of some people, but I would wait in line for four hours if my son could live life like a regular kid. He can't though, and going to Disney World is one of the few chances he's had to really enjoy himself.

Usually everyone is very supportive on here of disability stories. I was only trying to warn people about what to expect, since what I was told on here before my trip was different from what I experienced. I'm sorry that some of you don't think we deserved what I expected to receive.
__________________
Sharadoc

"Egotistical Manner", I DID NOT SAY SHE WAS EGOTISTICAL and called her no name!!! YOU ARE ADDING DRAMA where it doesn't belong!!!!!!

She was implying HER child got this special treatment because Autistic children often had to stay home for because of mekltdowns etc....MY point was There were other out there with different disabilites that too had to stay home etc....Thus Egotisitcal manner!! Just read it....

Charleyann

[Minniemama350]

:thumbsup2It really doesn't matter if some do not like the policy because it is not our policy, it is the park's policy. I do not have a child with a serious disabillity, She's ADHD but has no problems with lines, so we've never had to request a GAC for her.

I do not think that it's my place to judge what others feel is necessary for their child. None of us live with these families.

Does it really matter that much if a few people need special assistance? I thank God that none of my children have suffered from a disability that requires special treatment and certainly do not begrudge this to families that do need it.:thumbsup2

I have a 12 yr old ASD child. The 1st time we took him to WDW we brought our diagnosis from the Dr. so that we could get the assistance we would need. Thankfully,we were able to navigate our day without accomodations. Even though we had to wait in some serious lines that day, we felt blessed that we were able to. When parents say they would gladly wait if their children could, they are not blowing smoke. We are living proof. I have been thankful everytime since and have not even for one minute wished for the GAC. Lots of families will never have a family vacation without it. Their kids cannot wait, either in line or in a special room. The pass to return does sound like a good alternative for some. Splitting up the family does not. I have always admired Disney for understanding that concept. That is why so many families with ASD kids choose Disney.

I am always dismayed when I am waiting for a bus and someone with a disability goes to the front of the line to load. I am not upset they get to load first. What bothers me is how so many people think they can look at a person and decide immediately what is fair. Physical immobility is not the only issue that needs addressing in these situations. I applaud Disney's effort to spread a little magic in lives that are too often extremely unmagical. In addition to my own child, who does not need these accomodations, I have worked with many other children who do. Some stories are incredibly heartbreaking. One child, in particular, who has 200+ seizures daily. She can walk, but do you really think she is supposed to wait in the hot sun for a bus? The heat will trigger even more seizures, sometimes the kind that will make her body shoot 10 feet backwards in an instant. But she doesn't look sick, so her family has probably endured many ugly comments when they have gone to WDW. They would gladly wait if their daughter were able. Yes the heat at Disney has probably triggered some seizures. That doesn't mean she should be subjected to even more, just to be fair. If you knew her, you wouldn't even question it.

As for those with terminally ill children, my heart goes out to you. I don't think parents of disabled children are saying your child should not be treated special. I certainly am not.

[SueM in MN]

I am closing this thread at this point because it seems to not be going toward a good place.