Has this happened to you at the Land?

[Emmaline Lola]

A couple of weeks ago, my sis was visiting and we and my then 4 1/2 month old dd went to Epcot for the day. We had reservations for dinner in Mexico and decided to go to the Land for lunch.

My dd was sleeping in her stroller and I was not about to carry 13+ pounds of "sleeping baby" around the pavillion while I attempted to eat lunch. So I starting walking through the doors w/ my stroller. Well, the greeter at the doors practically jumped through my skin and told me NO STROLLERS!!! :earseek: I calmly asked what a person was to do who had a baby that could not walk. There was no way I could hold my dd the whole time we were inside. :confused3

The CM thought about it and told me I had to go to Guest Relations and get a GAC card and then I would be able to bring in my stroller. So we "schlepped" :guilty: all the way over to Guest RElations and I explained what had just happened to the CM there and she very politely told me, that I actually didn't need a GAC card, :earseek: but that she would give it to me anyway.

So we go back to the Land, where another Door Nazi CM says NO STROLLERS!!!!!!!!!! I whip out my GAC card :earboy2: , and he says Oh.....go ahead. :banana: Later on in the afternoon we returned to the Land to use our FP for Soarin and another Door Nazi CM AGAIN says NO STROLLERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!, once again I whip out my GAC card :earboy2: , and she says Oh......ok. :banana:

So my ? for all my dis families........has this happened to you before? I go to the parks numerous times a week, and this is the 1st time this has happended to me. Will I need a GAC card EVERY time I enter EPCOT until my dd can walk, just in case I want to go to the Land? :confused3

Curious to hear the responses! Thanks! :listen:

el

[smfritz03]

Awwwww---your baby is soooo cute!!!!!

[EthansMom]

Yes, we got told, "No strollers!" at The Land in April. It was a pain to have to carry our daughter in, but I don't really think the building is set up well for strollers.

[justhat]

We were also told no strollers last month (though the large amounts of parked strollers sorta made that obvious anyway). That made it kinda hard to get a baby swap pass for Soarin' when our daughter was sleeping. We could have carried her in to show we had a baby and then carried her back to the stroller outside, but she would have almost definitely woken up.

We asked the CM at the door what we do about that and he called down to the ride and they said once we rode they'd give us the pass, but no way were we taking that chance of waiting 45 minutes in line and then be told after that they need to see the baby if we want the pass. So we skipped it, or tried to go in to get the baby swap pass right before we knew she'd nap.

Kinda weird cause the Living Seas lets you bring in your stroller so who knows why the Land doesn't.

[SueM in MN]

Probably the reason that the Land doesn't allow is that there is one small elevator to get down to the bottom level (and then back up to get out of the building). We have already waited for 3 or 4 elevator trips to get into the elevator because there were so many people using it. We don't have an option besides the elevator because my DD uses a wheelchair.
Besides, as someone else mentioned, there are lots of strollers parked outside; if they were all inside, there wouldn't be room to move.

The (GAC) Guest Assistance Cards are meant as a tool for CMs to see what sort of accomidations are needed by people with invisible disabilities. The "use a stroller as a wheelchair" is used by people who have children who are old enough to walk, but can't (or can't walk well) because of a disability or by people who have a disability themselves that prevent them from being able to carry their young child.
There are other options available to people with children who are too young to walk - things like sling or backpack baby carriers because strollers are not allowed in lines or inwside most of the attraction buildings.

[meandtheguys2]

They gave you a GAC so you wouldn't have to carry your baby?! That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. Those are for people who NEED assistance. Not for mom's who just cant be bothered with carrying their children.

[cymomtx]

I understand your need to not wake your child, but as a mother of two children with disabilities, your use of the GAC is an abuse of the system. The GAC's are meant for people who have needs other then to not wake a child.

[ophie]

Personally, I LOVE that there are no strollers in the Land, but I understand the hardship for those with wee ones who don't walk yet. But, that pavilion is simply not set up for strollers... I mean, could you imagine the elevator line?? I did run into a lady though who brought her papoose sling for just that reason.

[justhat]

Ah, thanks! I forgot about baby carriers! On our trips with Madison at almost 3 and almost 4 months, she lived in her Baby Bjorn. She wasn't the type of baby who wanted to be put down in her stroller for a meal back then (or really put down ever at that age!) so I carried her in the Bjorn literally all day, unless I went on a ride she couldn't go on. She lived in it most of the day at home too, so I was very skilled at eating while she was in it.

We also used the Bjorn a good deal at 6 and 9 months, and even though she was walking on our last trip at 13 months we used it when she fell asleep a few times too.

[crisi]

They should have never given you a GAC for a stroller. And no, strollers aren't allowed in the Land. There are plenty of counter service restaurants in Epcot outside that you can get food at with a stroller.

[tmfranlk]

That is why I always took my Baby Bjorn or Hip Hammock with Disney for DD. There are many buildings, lines, etc where strollers are not allowed. I actually think that 13 pounds of sleeping baby is easier than awake baby. On our last trip, DD was 14 months, 27 pounds and did not walk yet. You can bet that was a lot of baby to carry around The Land, ride lines and anywhere else that we couldn't take the stoller, but carriers or slings do a wonder of good in helping with that. I personally would never get a GAC card just to keep my stroller for my healthy baby and self. I would either carry her or wait until she was awake again.

[faeflora]

As a person with a disability who utilizes a wheelchairit is really important to our family and to other families like mine that the GAC, Guest Assistance Cards be used for the purpose that they were intened, which is to assist inidivudals with special needs and families of individuals with special needs. This CM was wrong in giving you a GAC for the purpose that you stated. Having been to the Land several times I have to second SueM in MN's comment on waiting for the elevator. I have had to wait for several loads and unloads at the Land before the elevator was empty enough for me to slide on.
tmfrank, the idea of the Baby Bjorn or HipHamock (a side from having very cool names) is a wonderful idea to take with you if you have a child that is too young to walk it. Very cool idea and great tip. :flower:

[SueM in MN]

Ah, thanks! I forgot about baby carriers! On our trips with Madison at almost 3 and almost 4 months, she lived in her Baby Bjorn. She wasn't the type of baby who wanted to be put down in her stroller for a meal back then (or really put down ever at that age!) so I carried her in the Bjorn literally all day, unless I went on a ride she couldn't go on. She lived in it most of the day at home too, so I was very skilled at eating while she was in it.

We also used the Bjorn a good deal at 6 and 9 months, and even though she was walking on our last trip at 13 months we used it when she fell asleep a few times too.
Actually, that's what we did until DD got her first wheelchair when she was just short of 3 yrs old. We figured if people with children who didn't have disabilities were carrying their child into the the attractions, we should too (and she was small enough to still fit into her carrier until she was almost 3).
Most of the people I know of who have gotten a GAC to use a stroller in buildings/lines either have older children with disabilities who are too heavy to carry more than a few feet or their children have positioning needs that make it very uncomfortable or dangerous for the child to be out their stroller with special inserts.

[JudithM]

As a person with a disability who utilizes a wheelchairit is really important to our family and to other families like mine that the GAC, Guest Assistance Cards be used for the purpose that they were intened, which is to assist inidivudals with special needs and families of individuals with special needs. This CM was wrong in giving you a GAC for the purpose that you stated. Having been to the Land several times I have to second SueM in MN's comment on waiting for the elevator. I have had to wait for several loads and unloads at the Land before the elevator was empty enough for me to slide on.

Well said, thank you!

[Talking Hands]

When my daughters were babies they were in a Snuggli until they could walk. GAC are for providing access to people and families with special needs and not as a convenince for mothers of small children. This type of abuse only makes it harder on those of us that have special needs. More abuse by those not needing accommodation the less willing Disney is to accomodate those really needing it.

[welovedis]

Hi el-
Very cute pic!

As you may have guessed the ability to obtain a GAC is sometimes easier than others. Some people whose family members need that pass find it difficult/troublesome at times to obtain one. I hope the responses to your post didn't make it seem as if you did something wrong. The CM should not have granted you the card just because your child was sleeping and you didn't want to disturb her rest. Unfortunately The Land does not allow strollers (unless they are being used in place of a wheelchair) and therefore should not have allowed you to enter.

I'm curious as to why you used the card again later in the day to use your Soain' FP? Was your DD sleeping again or you just figured you'd utilize it since they gave it to you? I'm trying to discern if the CM who gave you the pass at Guest Relations even explained what the pass is supposed to be used for.

Speaking from a perspective of a mom who gets one for her child because he needs it, I'd appreciate it if those who are merely inconvenienced by something would think twice before attempting to obtain one of these. :flower:

[Ali]

IN defense of the OP, the CM told them to go get a GAC - so they did what they were told to do. I don't think they intended to abuse the system, just wanted to eat dinner without having to hold a sleeping baby. It would be a lot easier for parents of non-walking baby's if there were some kind of sleeping-high chair-car-seat carrier type thing to use when you were eating in places where they won't let you take your stroller.

I know I have skipped over the Land pavillion many times because I didn't want to wake up my sleeping child, and I have been turned away at sit down resturants because I wouldn't move him out of his stroller when told I would have to. But those are choices I made. I valued his rare sleep over eating/seeing the sights.


My DS is now 4 and I have debated the whole stroller as wheelchair things because of his Appergers and SID - massive inability to handle people getting near him in lines, but so far I haven't done it because I would rather wait until he is a little older and try to make it in the lines. I know if we start using the stroller in lines he will always expect to do it, that rigidness, you know !:)

The ideas of baby carriers are great, if you happen to have one and are accustomed to using one. But, it seems that this wasn't a time where one was available. I just want everyone to think about what they are typing, there are other peopel with feelings on the other sied of the screen who may be hurt by being called abusers.

Alicia

[txgirl]

This thread is a reminder of how important this board is! :goodvibes If I took a trip to Disney (without these boards) I would assume that I could take my stroller most places and probably wouldn't bring along a sling. I would ask as the OP did and take the advice of the person in charge. :confused3 I'm thinking (could be wrong :scratchin ) that the OP didn't think this was inappropriate because those in charge instructed her to get this pass.

I have learned so much from these boards (like the fact that I am seriously hooked! ;) ) and I can't imagine people going to DW without all this valuable info! :chat:

[meandtheguys2]

Fair enough. Hopefully now she understands this is NOT the intent for these passes, per her statement about now needing one every time she goes to Epcot.

[welovedis]

IN defense of the OP, the CM told them to go get a GAC - so they did what they were told to do. I don't think they intended to abuse the system, just

I didn't mean to imply this by my post either. Before I read about the GAC on the disABILITIES forum, I was unaware it even existed. If a CM told her to get one and she really wanted to eat at The Land, then I totally understand. Hope the OP didn't take offense at what I posted and my questions! :)

[tjmw2727]

In defense of the OP it seems that she honestly didn't realize the significance of the GAC.

We had to skip attractions or rearrange our plans during our December trip when my neice was sleeping. We just did other things while baby was sleeping, most of the other counterserve places did have stroller access or outside eating areas.

I feel that the CM at the land made the first mistake in suggesting the GAC and the CM who issued it made the second mistake. I agree that the OP should not have been able to get one, but I don't think its her fault that she ended up with it.

To the OP's question:

snip

So my ? for all my dis families........has this happened to you before? I go to the parks numerous times a week, and this is the 1st time this has happended to me. Will I need a GAC card EVERY time I enter EPCOT until my dd can walk, just in case I want to go to the Land? :confused3

Curious to hear the responses! Thanks! :listen:

el

Yes, we have been denied access to many places with a stroller, its a fire hazard in most instances. Since you are returning I would plan differently and or try a sling or snugly like others mentioned (my sil LOVES hers). A sling is also very helpful for lines and attractions.

As to "will I need a GAC" my answer is a definate no -and you probbaly won't get one either. You didn't realize it but the GAC you got was "permission to use your stroller as a wheelchair". While this was a convenience for you it is a necessity for others.

TJ

[meandtheguys2]

I find it difficult to believe that someone who worked for years at the Dolphin doesn't have a clue about what a GAC is and appropriate usage. My vote is troll.

[lynetteSC]

IN defense of the OP, the CM told them to go get a GAC - so they did what they were told to do. I don't think they intended to abuse the system, just wanted to eat dinner without having to hold a sleeping baby. It would be a lot easier for parents of non-walking baby's if there were some kind of sleeping-high chair-car-seat carrier type thing to use when you were eating in places where they won't let you take your stroller.

I know I have skipped over the Land pavillion many times because I didn't want to wake up my sleeping child, and I have been turned away at sit down resturants because I wouldn't move him out of his stroller when told I would have to. But those are choices I made. I valued his rare sleep over eating/seeing the sights.


My DS is now 4 and I have debated the whole stroller as wheelchair things because of his Appergers and SID - massive inability to handle people getting near him in lines, but so far I haven't done it because I would rather wait until he is a little older and try to make it in the lines. I know if we start using the stroller in lines he will always expect to do it, that rigidness, you know !:)

The ideas of baby carriers are great, if you happen to have one and are accustomed to using one. But, it seems that this wasn't a time where one was available. I just want everyone to think about what they are typing, there are other peopel with feelings on the other sied of the screen who may be hurt by being called abusers.

Alicia

ditto! This same thing happened to us in May. DH waited outside while the rest of the party went in. He met up with us as soon as baby was awake. VERY hard to understand since you can easily take stroller all over The Living Seas.

I was hoping they would have changed that when they refurbished the Land.

[alohacousin]

That is what is required for those in wheelchairs and we have to do this for all parks. its only fair :teacher:

Renae
mom to 6
Angelman syndrome (http://www.angelman.org)

[Kerlynne]

I find it difficult to believe that someone who worked for years at the Dolphin doesn't have a clue about what a GAC is and appropriate usage. My vote is troll.
:worried: really not necessary! :sad2:




I feel we are now better educated for the better. Never knew this GAC card was there, for families that need it. And now the OP will see how important these cards are, and how unnecessary of usage it was for her to obtain.

[meandtheguys2]

She worked at the Dolphin for years! Front desk per her posts. Her Dh still works there. She goes to WDW several times a week, and has stayed in most of the resorts. I still think this was posted to stir the pot.

[all4fun]

I never got the impression from the OP that she didn't know what a GAC card was. It is believable though that someone may not know how inappropriate use of something could have a negative impact on those that really need it. That kind of thing happens all the time, I'm sure. I'm NOT saying this is the case with the OP because I don't know her, but sometimes people know and just don't care, unfortunately.

Back on topic...We were at WDW in April when they did the AP/DVC preview of Soarin' and I was dissappointed they didn't allow us to bring in our stroller, and a little irritated that they wouldn't allow any strollers to be parked near the doors, just down below. (I do agree with the "Stroller Nazi" description, LOL - those CM's weren't messing around). I can understand why they don't allow strollers in but I couldn't understand the stroller parking issue. I remember in the past they allowed strollers to be parked near the doors to The Land. I am wondering if this was because of the preview that was going on and maybe they wanted to keep the outside as neat and orderly as possible for some executive tour that was about to happen or if that is still what people are being told?

It was also not very fun to try and entertain a rambunctious toddler (at the time the only thing open in the Land was Soarin') while waiting around for dh to get off the ride. But hopefully now that the whole pavilian has been reopened that will be a little easier in the future. I remember thinking it would be nice if they had a small play area in there for the Toddler age kids (like outside Splash Mtn for example) because all my ds wanted to do was climb that steep staircase and then go down the escalator. We must have done that 50 times. Good thing I brought the harness because it was handy to grab a hold to help keep him steady (not the leash part, the actual harness). Thankfully because it was a limited opening the lines weren't too terribly long otherwise I don't think we would have been able to do it.

[crabmeal]

What about moms whose back and neck can't carry the weight of a baby sleeping or not? I think attacking the OP and the CM for geting a GAC is out of line. The LAnd is an Epcot attraction and as part of the admission all have the right to access it. If it is too small to accomodate a sleeping baby's stroller, then maybe all wheelchairs and ECV's should be banned from there as well as strollers. You think when they redesigned it they could have put in an accessible people mover somehow instead of one small elevator.
I had to play Devil's Advocate on that one!

[welovedis]

What about moms whose back and neck can't carry the weight of a baby sleeping or not? I think attacking the OP and the CM for geting a GAC is out of line. The LAnd is an Epcot attraction and as part of the admission all have the right to access it. If it is too small to accomodate a sleeping baby's stroller, then maybe all wheelchairs and ECV's should be banned from there as well as strollers

If the moms/dads have a disability that is invisible, then should be requesting a GAC based on a medical issue. If that is not the case, then they should be visiting appropriate areas for their family. Not every guest is allowed/able to experience every ride/attraction in every park.


Your statement about all WCs and ECVs being banned from there is absolutely distasteful-there is a big difference between someone who cannot navigate the parks without their WC or ECV and a parent who chooses not to carry their child (sleeping or otherwise) into an attraction. I hope and pray you or your family members are not wheelchair bound at any point in their lives as it is not a fun prospect or one that you would chose.

[grlpwrd]

A couple of weeks ago, my sis was visiting and we and my then 4 1/2 month old dd went to Epcot for the day. We had reservations for dinner in Mexico and decided to go to the Land for lunch.

My dd was sleeping in her stroller and I was not about to carry 13+ pounds of "sleeping baby" around the pavillion while I attempted to eat lunch. So I starting walking through the doors w/ my stroller. Well, the greeter at the doors practically jumped through my skin and told me NO STROLLERS!!! :earseek: I calmly asked what a person was to do who had a baby that could not walk. There was no way I could hold my dd the whole time we were inside. :confused3

The CM thought about it and told me I had to go to Guest Relations and get a GAC card and then I would be able to bring in my stroller. So we "schlepped" :guilty: all the way over to Guest RElations and I explained what had just happened to the CM there and she very politely told me, that I actually didn't need a GAC card, :earseek: but that she would give it to me anyway.

So we go back to the Land, where another Door Nazi CM says NO STROLLERS!!!!!!!!!! I whip out my GAC card :earboy2: , and he says Oh.....go ahead. :banana: Later on in the afternoon we returned to the Land to use our FP for Soarin and another Door Nazi CM AGAIN says NO STROLLERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!, once again I whip out my GAC card :earboy2: , and she says Oh......ok. :banana:

So my ? for all my dis families........has this happened to you before? I go to the parks numerous times a week, and this is the 1st time this has happended to me. Will I need a GAC card EVERY time I enter EPCOT until my dd can walk, just in case I want to go to the Land? :confused3

Curious to hear the responses! Thanks! :listen:

el

I don't think she's a troll. Just because she used to work at the Dolphin from 95 to 02 and her dh still works there or something, I believe, doesn't mean she knows everything . I went back to read some of her old posts and it seems like she had questions about Epcot before.

Even so I've learned from this thread, too, as I was unaware of the GAC before reading it on the disabilities forum, too. Thank you....

[Emmaline Lola]

I am the original poster here and I most DEFINATELY did not mean to ruffle any feathers! I am the person who moves shopping carts out of the wheelchair accessible spots in parking lots--I would NEVER abuse the GAC system!

I am a new mom, and do not know the ins and outs of what is and is not acceptable in terms of where a stroller/baby can and cannot be at WDW. I definately am aware of a GAC card, but only from here on these boards. During my work at the Dolphin I never came in contact w/ obtaining a GAC card for a guest or even knew they existed until I starting reading these boards in detail daily. I assisted in getting a guest a complimentary town car to the parks if they were delayed in waiting for a bus that could accomodate their wheelchair, but once they were in the parks, I could not assist them any further.

I honestly, asked a question as to if this was an everyday occurance at the Land and if this was acceptable. I DID NOT abuse the GAC at all, and only used it the 2 times going into the Land, so I did not have to carry my baby. I thank God everyday, that I have a healthy baby and truly respect others that live with family members, children, themselves that have huge obstacles to overcome daily. I would NEVER do such a thing. I do have a heart condition that I have been living w/ since 1996/1997, but I do not ask for any sympathy--so yes it would be hard for me to hold my dd for a long period of time. But looking at me, you would never know.

So friends, let's get over this post and move on to happier things! I promise I will NEVER ask for a GAC again! I honestly thought I was following the proper protocol!

Let's be friends again, okay?

el :flower:

[lynetteSC]

I am a new mom, and do not know the ins and outs of what is and is not acceptable in terms of where a stroller/baby can and cannot be at WDW.

Let's be friends again, okay?

el :flower:

:grouphug: As a new mom who has also travelled to WDW plenty of times before bringing baby, I totally agree with you. I was tad frustrated in MK that while baby was sleeping there wasn't anywhere except shopping/eating to take baby. We had arrived right after breakfast and were meeting my parents elsewhere for lunch in about 2 hours, so we didn't need to eat and didn't have much time in the park. It was a VERY crowded day, so lines were long for one of us to do a adult rides. We just walked around and took in all the sites and theming we would otherwise had not noticed. No biggie, but we thought a family park would have plenty of things to do with strollers.

[Emmaline Lola]

They gave you a GAC so you wouldn't have to carry your baby?! That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. Those are for people who NEED assistance. Not for mom's who just cant be bothered with carrying their children.


I am sorry, but I can't let this post go---meandtheguys2---why do you have to be so rude? I did not understand that I was doing any wrong in obtaining the GAC card, I wanted to bring my dd inside the pavillion in her stroller, asked the CM what to do, and did what she told me to do.

I take pride in caring for my dd! And am NEVER "bothered" by it! I am a proud mommy, don't judge me for asking a question!

Note to moderators: I just had to get that off my chest--please don't ban me from these boards!

el

[meandtheguys2]

I am tickled that I misjudged and you are not out to cause difficulties for GAC users, or encourage other mother's to assume they can get these passes. I do apologize.

Michelle

[crisi]

It is something that people traveling with small children need to be aware of. I never posted to the vent post about not being able to do anything with baby sleeping in the stroller. Just smiled each time I read it because it seemed so obvious to me that the stroller gets parked at WDW and then you carry or toddle or walk your children through attractions, through lines - and often through entire areas of the park. Its been so long since I was shocked at the distance between the stroller parking area and the loading area at PotC (the Safari, FotLK, the LONG standing wait that is waiting for ITTAB to start) that I'd simply forgotten it was ever an issue!

When doing Disney with small children, you do need to consider that they will be out of the stroller as much as they are in it. Are they up to walking or are you up to carrying them the distances required? Or will this be a "smell the flowers" trip of strolling around, seeing the things that can be seen while pushing a stroller (which isn't much)? The hassles of transportation need to be considered. How to wait in a 45 minute line for Dumbo with a child that has only learned to stand two months ago - and already weighs 26 lbs!?

[meandtheguys2]

Perhaps if you didn't talk of it as "schlepping around" with the baby I wouldn't have had that impression. And I am offended that they gave you a pass, and am still surprised you didn't look into what the pass was about.

[Emmaline Lola]

meandtheguys2: I accept your apology and can now go enjoy the rest of my day even though it is STILL raining here in Orlando! I need to get out of the house!

have a great weekend!

el

[Emmaline Lola]

Perhaps if you didn't talk of it as "schlepping around" with the baby I wouldn't have had that impression.


have you never heard of a little humor? it makes the world a little sunnier in my opinion! :sunny:

meandtheguys2 have a MOST magical day!

:sunny: :sunny: :sunny: :sunny: :sunny: :sunny: :sunny: :sunny: :sunny:

[DZNYMGCFAM]

UM..she did say that she has a heart condition......Give her a break. I say good for her....been there with a sleeping baby and two small children trying to go into the Land to eat, what a pain and I have a healthy heart!!!

[Forevryoung]

What about moms whose back and neck can't carry the weight of a baby sleeping or not? I think attacking the OP and the CM for geting a GAC is out of line. The LAnd is an Epcot attraction and as part of the admission all have the right to access it. If it is too small to accomodate a sleeping baby's stroller, then maybe all wheelchairs and ECV's should be banned from there as well as strollers. You think when they redesigned it they could have put in an accessible people mover somehow instead of one small elevator.
I had to play Devil's Advocate on that one!

If all have the right then a person with a disability should be able to access the things to. Everyone does have the right to access it- it might mean that you have to carry your child then. There are plenty of times someone has to transfer out of their wheelchair to experience a ride. A stroller is a tool so that you dont have to carry your baby all day but a wheelchair makes it possible for someone to leave their house. It is not a tool but a necessity. I dont think you can place a wheelchair and a stroller in the same category (unless the baby/child in the stroller has special needs). I am offended that you suggest we wait outside an attraction because they dont allow your stroller. My sister who is 9 cant walk does that mean she isnt as good as a 9 year old who can? Or does that mean that it would be my responsibility to carry all 70lbs of her through an attraction so she can appreciate Disney too? I hope you are never in my shoes, she gets really heavy :rolleyes: but I cant wait to take her to Disney for the first time on Sunday :cheer2:

[disneydreamer98]

They gave you a GAC so you wouldn't have to carry your baby?! That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. Those are for people who NEED assistance. Not for mom's who just cant be bothered with carrying their children.


I think that was a bit harsh...maybe she didn't know what the "GAC" card stood for. I for one did not until it was stated on this thread. She just followed the directions of the CM. There is a lot to do in The Land Pavillion and I can completely understand her concerns about carrying a 13 pound baby around...as well as I can understand Disney's rules about keeping the strollers outside. I will be facing this same dilema in 2 weeks. I certainly do not think that she was trying to take advantage of the system or realized the impact that this may have on those who really NEED the GAC card. Live and Learn.

[lsteadman]

The Land does not have enough space for all of the strollers and people. We had a hard time getting down to Soarin and the line for the elevators was so long for people in EVC (sp?) and wheelchairs. You can fit only 2 wheel chairs and 2 people in that small elevator. I notice this because we had to cross all the people waiting in line for the elevator to get to the ladies room.

It might be an inconvenience but I like no strollers in the land.

[justhat]

Okay, I understand why everyone is upset that if we all got GACs for our kids in strollers the Land would be a nightmare! But also, I don't think we should all attack EL. She had never encountered the problem before and did what a CM told her she could do. Not like she lied to get it, stole someone else's GAC, or anything else. She explained her problem and they gave it to her so I don't think there's any reason to be so mad at her.

I have to add though, consider yourself lucky with a 13 lbs. baby, EL! My daughter was 12.5 lbs. on our 1st trip and 20 lbs. on our last trip and wow did I feel that difference!!

[Emmaline Lola]

Okay, I understand why everyone is upset that if we all got GACs for our kids in strollers the Land would be a nightmare! But also, I don't think we should all attack EL. She had never encountered the problem before and did what a CM told her she could do. Not like she lied to get it, stole someone else's GAC, or anything else. She explained her problem and they gave it to her so I don't think there's any reason to be so mad at her.

I have to add though, consider yourself lucky with a 13 lbs. baby, EL! My daughter was 12.5 lbs. on our 1st trip and 20 lbs. on our last trip and wow did I feel that difference!!


thanks justhat for your support here on this one! (and to everyone else who pm'd me!) :flower:

Madison is one cutie pie! 20 pounds already!? they do grow fast! I am sure before long I'll be wishing she was "only" 13 pounds! btw we were at the dr's last week-15 pounds & growing!!

she's a beauty!

EL

[justhat]

Your welcome. No need for people to get so worked up over such a small issue, and in this case especially since you did as you were told.

Yep they do grow up quickly, 20 lbs., well about 21 lbs. now at 15 months. But she's in the 25% for weight now, so I guess I should be thankful she slimmed down cause she could have weighed even more. Though really, it's not so much the weight that gets me, but her length, at least for baby carriers that is. When I'd put her in the Bjorn so she could nap and we could still go on with the day, her feet would be kicking my knees as I walked. Still though, much easier to carry her that way than just slung over my arms as 'dead weight'.

Oh, and don't think once your pretty little girl is walking that it will get any easier! Madison was 13 months (and walking) on our last trip and so she did NOT want to be in her stroller, but those little legs only go so quick.... And then she decided 13 months is old enough to not hold Mommy's hand anymore.... So of course she spent a great deal of time in our arms everyday, it was either that or watch people give us dirty looks for pushing a stroller with a screaming baby in it!

[bizeemom4]

I understand your need to not wake your child, but as a mother of two children with disabilities, your use of the GAC is an abuse of the system. The GAC's are meant for people who have needs other then to not wake a child.

Amen to that. That was my immediate reaction. Is there an icon for *shaking my head in disgust?* :earseek: Oh, here it is.... :sad2: :sad2: :sad2: :sad2:

[seashoreCM]

I understand your need to not wake your child, but as a mother of two children with disabilities, your use of the GAC is an abuse of the system.
How can it be an abuse of the system when she is not using the GAC to get to the front of a ride line ?

[LisaBi]

Actually, that's what we did until DD got her first wheelchair when she was just short of 3 yrs old. We figured if people with children who didn't have disabilities were carrying their child into the the attractions, we should too (and she was small enough to still fit into her carrier until she was almost 3)..

Us too. We carried our son until he was just too big (age 5 or 6) THEN started using the stroller, and eventually a wheelchair.

Lisa

[meandtheguys2]

How can it be an abuse of the system when she is not using the GAC to get to the front of a ride line ?

It is a bad precedent. Pure and simple. How many people have read this thread now will attempt to get a GAC for this frivolous reason? How many will come back whining about it if they don't. How much harder will it be for those who actually do need this service?

[bizeemom4]

In the initial post, the OP was whining that she would HAVE to get this card every time she wanted to do something that banned stroller access. It IS an abuse of the system. She didn't feel like holding her baby during lunch. AND she used it again later so she wouldn't have to carry the baby to the Soarin ride. Everyone else has to but she didn't want to so she got a handicapped access card. THAT is an abuse of the system. It wasn't that she COULDN'T - it's that she didn't WANT to do what everyone else has to do.

[txgirl]

In the initial post, the OP was whining that she would HAVE to get this card every time she wanted to do something that banned stroller access. It IS an abuse of the system. She didn't feel like holding her baby during lunch. AND she used it again later so she wouldn't have to carry the baby to the Soarin ride. Everyone else has to but she didn't want to so she got a handicapped access card. THAT is an abuse of the system. It wasn't that she COULDN'T - it's that she didn't WANT to do what everyone else has to do.

Don't you think that the cm has the greater responsibility? Hypothetical:

If you went to Wal-Mart and couldn't find a parking spot so you asked an employee what to do and they directed you into a handicapped spot shouldn't the employees be accountable? :confused3

If she lied and said her daughter was diabled (she did not) then we could say, "yes, she is a bad bad girl". BUT she didn't lie. She said my daughter is asleep in a stroller, what can I do? They said, "do this" and she did. I'm not sure how this is abuse? I would be curious to see what the protocol is when you ask for one of these cards without a disabled need. Do you think that the CMs are totally uneducated about the procedure? :sad2:

I wholeheartedly agree with previous posts that no one should ever take advantage of a service that should be offered solely to those in need of it. Being on these boards is a wonderful thing and I have learned so many things. One biggie is there are people who want to tear down rather than build up. :guilty:

OP-let the negative comments roll off! :sunny: By the way, your baby girl is precious! :cutie:

[meandtheguys2]

No, I wouldn't park in the HC spot at Walmart in your situation either. Just because someone says it is okay doesn't make it so. People need to take personal responsibility for their actions, IMO.

[crisi]

But she didn't know it wasn't ok. She was doing what she was told by two(!) CMs. That CMs would hand out GAC cards for such reasons is silly.

[meandtheguys2]

UM..she did say that she has a heart condition......Give her a break. I say good for her....been there with a sleeping baby and two small children trying to go into the Land to eat, what a pain and I have a healthy heart!!!

Give me a break! She can walk the parks all day, but not carry her baby to the eating area where she had someone to help her, even, because of a heart condition?

Babies come with their own set of problems. Sometimes adjustments need to be made because of them. Ragging on the CM's who were doing their job correctly was rude.

And anyone who has spent any time in a park knows that there have always been cards for peole who have health issues. And I only go once a year.

[Merriwind]

To me, the CMs did have the greater responsibility to do the right thing in this instance. Two of them did not. They suggested and provided a GAC rather than deal with an unhappy guest.

While the OP's tone may have been off-putting to some in this thread's first post, she has since reappeared, stated her ignorance of the GACs and assured all that she would never use one in that manner again. `Nuff said for me. I certainly don't know everything, so I certainly give her the benefit of the doubt and believe her assertions.

Plus, perhaps she has done a service in starting this thread. Now, many people who didn't before know about GACs and how they should not be used.

[disneydreamer98]

Give me a break! She can walk the parks all day, but not carry her baby to the eating area where she had someone to help her, even, because of a heart condition?

Babies come with their own set of problems. Sometimes adjustments need to be made because of them. Ragging on the CM's who were doing their job correctly was rude.

And anyone who has spent any time in a park knows that there have always been cards for peole who have health issues. And I only go once a year.


You know what? Since the OP has a heart condition I would say that she qualifies for the GAC!!! Even if it is to assist her with her baby. I cannot believe that this is still going on. She said she was sorry, that she was not aware of what the GAC was for and that she will never "abuse" it again. What more do you want? Her signature to a sworn affidavit in blood?!?! Get over it!

As far as being rude...that's like the pot calling the kettle black. You were not very nice in your OP!

BTW....I am a lifelong WDW visitor with over 30 trips under my belt and until I came across this thread I did not, nor would I have known what "GAC" stood for, so to assume that "anyone who has spent anytime in a park" knows is just ignorant.

I just think it is wrong to keep going at the OP....

[txgirl]

You know what? Since the OP has a heart condition I would say that she qualifies for the GAC!!! Even if it is to assist her with her baby. I cannot believe that this is still going on. She said she was sorry, that she was not aware of what the GAC was for and that she will never "abuse" it again. What more do you want? Her signature to a sworn affidavit in blood?!?! Get over it!

As far as being rude...that's like the pot calling the kettle black. You were not very nice in your OP!

BTW....I am a lifelong WDW visitor with over 30 trips under my belt and until I came across this thread I did not, nor would I have known what "GAC" stood for, so to assume that "anyone who has spent anytime in a park" knows is just ignorant.

I just think it is wrong to keep going at the OP....

ditto... and on that note, I'm outta here. The constant berating of someone for no reason simply blows my mind. :sad2:

[Stimpy]

I think the anger is a little misdirected here. Yes, she did the wrong thing, and I am sure she knows that now.
The people that were really wrong in this situation are the 2 CM's. First a CM TOLD her to go get the card and then another CM GAVE her the card! If anyone really deserves a lecture here it is the 2 CM's. The OP was wrong in using the card, but she was doing what Disney CM's told her to do and allowed her to do.
Personally, we would never have used the GAC card since we know what it's really for. Actually, we would have never thought of it, no strollers means no strollers to us. We would have either had someone stay outside with the baby (Or taken her to Living Seas for A/C) or taken her out of the stroller. Our DD is 1 yr old & 20 pounds and she took a nice nap on her PopPop's lap in a corner inside the building while we went on Soarin'. :)

[justhat]

Really, I think she has gotten everyone's point. No need to continue 'lecturing'. Also, the fact that someone has a heart condition and can walk says nothing about carrying a baby. My grandmother had a quadruple bypass and aortic valve replacement. She came with us to Disney twice (she has since passed away) and she could walk around all day with us, albeit very slowly and with frequent breaks. In the heat she was worse (luckily took her in March and November). We got her a wheelchair cause she truly needed it as the walking all day the 1st day took a toll on her, but she wanted to do it not to burden the family. Now, if we had asked my grandmother to carry a 15 lb. object, no way could she have done it more than a few minutes. So yes, it is quite possible that the OP can walk around just fine on her own (maybe she goes slow and stops a lot, who knows) but can't carry a baby long periods of time. Until you walk in someone else's shoes, you can't comment on their abilities, and there's no reason to judge.

[DZNYMGCFAM]

The constant berating of someone for no reason simply blows my mind. :sad2:

Amen, I am with you!!!! Especially AFTER she apologized!!!!!! :sad2:

[Emmaline Lola]

Justhat has said it all! Thank you! :grouphug:

[gary4jenn]

Give me a break! She can walk the parks all day, but not carry her baby to the eating area where she had someone to help her, even, because of a heart condition?

Babies come with their own set of problems. Sometimes adjustments need to be made because of them. Ragging on the CM's who were doing their job correctly was rude.

And anyone who has spent any time in a park knows that there have always been cards for peole who have health issues. And I only go once a year.


I also have a heart problme that would be affected by carrying my heavy baby for 45 min. in addition to my purse and stocked diaper bag. Imagine carrying 4 -5 lb bags of sugar- wouldn't that be a stress on your body too?

I would suggest Disney add a notation to the park map regarding the Land so at least some people will see it and be fore-warned.

AND- TO ASSUME THE WORST IN PEOPLE AS MEANDTHEGUYS2 SEEMS TO, THAT WE ARE NOW GOING TO GO OUT AND ABUSE THE GAC SYSTEM IS APPALLING. ALSO TO ASSUME THE THE OP POSTED JUST TO "STIR THE POST" IS REALLY QUITE SOMETHING.

I have always felt that the "spirit" of these boards to help us become knowledgeable in the Disney way-not to lurk around to find ways to be deceitful and sneaky.

I sincerely hope that the OP does not take any neg. comments personally and I am glad she posted.

I learned:
1. The Land is not stroller accessable,
2. What a GAC card is and what they are for,
3. Never to ask for a GAC unless vital to mobility,
4. never accept one if not needed.

Thank you EL for helping me learn somwething new!

[justhat]

Also guys, it is called a "Guest Assistance Card" right? I mean not "Handicapped Guest Assistance Card". So that would imply to the average guest, say me if I had not read this thread, that it is for any guest who needs assistance in one way or another.

[nwdisgal]

This thread in general has been a real good source for clarification and education on the GAC. Really, I do feel that the the CMs should have been more up to date on the intent of the pass. Its purpose is of too much importance to people who genuinely need to use it. I don't blame the OP though. It sounds like she walked into this, well meaning, but misinformed by the CMs. I've been a mom who's done my share of building biceps toting my kids around in arm, and wishing I had a stroller solution ;) . That said, I also have a child with Special Needs (which has opened my eyes to the whole world of raising a kid that has special requirements). Although, my child doesn't have a mobility issue, I strongly support and empathize with people that require or that have children who are wheelchair or stroller bound by disability, or medical condition. The posters who've pointed out the importance of reserving the GAC for those who actually require special assistance are right on. Really, that is what the pass is for, first and foremost. Every child should have a chance to enjoy WDW.

[TinkerBellz33]

Hi!! I'm brand new to the boards, and have been lurking around reading all this wonderful info all of you have to share. I'm so happy to have found a place where there are so many other people that enjoy Disney as much as I do. But, i do have to confess, I've actually been very hesitant to post anything up because of some of the topics that can get very out of hand. On this particular post the OP was just asking a very simple question, and she got brutally flamed for it. Some of the replys, in my opinion, being quite rude. ~Not very Disney like attitude~
Sorry if I offend anybody, but just thought you might want to know what it looks like from an outsiders point of view.... Don't get me wrong, I'm already addicted to these boards, and plan to check them most everyday, but I think a little pixie dust :wizard: could be thrown the way of :mad: the more grumpy posters. The wonderful woman I met the other day, who actually recommended this board to me, said she was to shy to post up on here, because some of the more mean comments that some people like to say, and the debates that get out of hand.
Ok, my flame suit is on, and I have the extinguisher handy....fire away....But all in all, this site is wonderful, and was very excited to find it! Just please keep it happy, and encouraging to all :goodvibes
Nicki

[Stimpy]

Tinkerbellz33, Welcome to the DIS! Please don't be afraid to post. Most everyone here is well meaning. It just seems that there are certain topics that get strong reactions on both sides of the issue. There are some members here....and in most internet forums.....that take their view/side of an issue very seriously. Not that there is anything wrong with that (unless sometimes you are the OP with the unpopular side of the issue ;) ) It is helpful to others who don't know to read both sides of an "arguement". Certain topics are just bound to turn ugly...refilllable mugs, room occupancy, certain parenting issues etc :)

Please remember, I am talking in General....I am not referring to just this thread. Again, I do agree OP was wrong and I am sure she knows that now too. :)

[TinkerBellz33]

Thanks Stimpy for the warm welcome :sunny: , and I definetly agree with you....I have been doing a lot of reading about all the different post and threads (I had a lot of catching up to do!!!) And I think everybody is entitled to their opinion....as long as people can talk about it respectfully with others. It was just one certain poster on this topic (I'm not going to name names) that really made me wonder about the Dis Boards. They were down right nasty to the Op, which I think was wrong :confused3 . But talking to so many of you nice Disers out there, has made me realize that you are a wonderful group, and I can't wait to post more... :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc
Nicki

[SueM in MN]

Also guys, it is called a "Guest Assistance Card" right? I mean not "Handicapped Guest Assistance Card". So that would imply to the average guest, say me if I had not read this thread, that it is for any guest who needs assistance in one way or another.
It does say on the card in quite a few places that it is for guests with disabilities and it makes mention of wheelchairs and accomidations for people with disabilities. It is usually not easy to get one - you have to explain your needs to the CMs in Guest Services, who will often have other suggestions besides a GAC (the OP did note that she was told she did not need a GAC, but then they did agree to give her one anyway, even though they said she didn't need one).
Here's the sort of Guest Assistance Card 101 that I posted on a thread on the disABILITIES Board in response to a question today.
Here's what the WDW Guidebook for Guest with Disabilities has to say about Stamina or Endurance concerns
Stamina or Endurance Concerns

Some Guests may be concerned that they do not have the stamina to wait in our queues. We strongly suggest these Guests consider using a wheelchair, personal scooter or Electric Convenience Vehicle (ECV), as the distance between our attractions is much greater than the length of our queues.

That is actually very good advice because the amount of time and distance spent waiting in lines is very small compared with the amount spent just getting around the parks. Many queues involve a fairly long distance walking even when the wait is short - the Kilamonjari Safari, It's Tough to be a Bug, Fantasmic - are some where you will walk a fairly long distance even if you can walk right in and don't have to wait. And, there are many situations where you wait and a GAC would not be useful, such as waiting in queues to buy food, etc.
Just for thought - It's about 1.3 miles to go around the waterway at WS in Epcot and it's at least an equal distance from the park entrance to that point.

Check into the disABILITIES FAQs thread near the top of this board for more information about renting wheelchairs and ecvs.

So, that said, what is a GAC?
First of all, it is not a Pass (that implies immediate or better access). The name was changed from Guest Assistance Pass to Guest Assistance Card about 5 years ago so people would know it didn't allow immediate access.

The GAC (Guest Assistance Card) is a tool for CMs to have some information on what accomidations are needed by someone with an invisible disability. It says right on the GAC card that it is not meant to shorten or eliminate waits in line, just to provide necessary accomidation.
It is also printed on the card that if the guest wants to avoid waits in line, they should make use of FastPass.
The accomidations are based on the needs that the guest explains to the CM at Guest Services in the park. There are several stamps that can be added to the GAC to give sort of general instructions, (things like "avoid stairs", etc). The cards have icons and the different messages are stamped in different colors so that the CM can glance at the card and see what general needs there are (they don't need to read the whole card and are not being lazy if they don't - they can get what they need by a quick look).

How to get one - the guest with a disability needs to go to Guest Services in any of the parks and be able to explain their needs - you don't need to give a diagnosis or specific medcial information; what the CM needs to knwo is what the problems are and what sort of accomidations would help with that situation. The GAC is usually issued to be valid for your entire length of stay and the GAC you get at one theme park is valid at all the other theme parks (not Disney Quest or the Water Pardks though). The GAC can be for up to 6 people - 5 plus the peson with a disability. There are times when you may be asked to split into smaller groups - 1 or 2 plus the person with a disability because either the waiting area or the seating area for people with special needs is limited in size.
Not all attractions offer the same accomidations - most don't have any place to sit and wait (some may have quieter places to stand and wait, but if you need to sit, you are not guaranteed that unless you have a wheelchair or ecv).
When CMs let someone with a GAC bypass part of a line, it's usually for what they would call "operational reasons", i.e. right at that time, they may be better staffed and/or have no one with special needs on the ride, so it is easier for them to have you board right away.

All queues are wheelchair accessible and most are ecv accessible.
AK and the Studio were built with Mainstream Access which means that the regular lines are accessible and wheelchair/ecv users wait in the same lines with eveyone else. MK and Epcot are older parks, so not all the queues were able to be upgraded to Mainstream Access, but all Fastpass queues and newer rides are mainstream.
Someone who can get out of their wheelchair/ecv and walk a few feet will be asked to park it and walk from the wheelchair holding area to the attraction car. For those who can't, the wheelchair/ecv can usually be pulled up to within 1 to 2 feet (or often even closer) to the ride car.

As was already noted, people using a wheelchair or ecv don't need a GAC because the CM can see that they need to use an accessible entrance. The exceptions would be someone who has additional needs that are not met just by having an accessible entrance and children with strollers they are using in line or special needs strollers (many of them look like regular stroller and are not recognized as a mobility device by CMs without a GAC that says they can be used as a stroller).

[Lisa loves Pooh]

And anyone who has spent any time in a park knows that there have always been cards for peole who have health issues. And I only go once a year.

We go very frequently and we never heard of the cards.

My mother uses a "scooter" when she goes--for legitimate reasons--but she likes to park it to access attractions as she doesn't like the special treatment. Her condition requires her to be mobile about half the time and sitting the other half. In the "old" days--it took forever to get around the park with her. In any case--she's never been told about nor asked for a card.

[SueM in MN]

We go very frequently and we never heard of the cards.

My mother uses a "scooter" when she goes--for legitimate reasons--but she likes to park it to access attractions as she doesn't like the special treatment. Her condition requires her to be mobile about half the time and sitting the other half. In the "old" days--it took forever to get around the park with her. In any case--she's never been told about nor asked for a card.
It would be very possible for someone who uses a scooter or ecv not to know about the card since they would likely not need to use a GAC.
If she doesn't need any special access while in line (like to avoid stairs or to have the moving walkways slowed or stopped for her), she would not need a card. If she chose to use the ecvv in lines, in most cases she would just be waiting in the regular lines. But for those attractions that have special handling for ecvs or wheelchairs, they could tell she needed that because they can see the ecv (like being able to park the ecv at the exit so it is there when she gets off).

[justhat]

I don't want anyone to think that I meant that the card is for any guest, not just guests with a need. What I meant was that if some CM told me to get a "guest assistance card" then I'd think it's for any guest who needs any sort of assistance. I would not have thought it was reserved for disabled guests only.