WDW -Disability Access Service (DAS) - ARCHIVED THREAD; no longer vslid

[DaisyD]

Would you mind elaborating?

I just scheduled my FP+ for a 1 day trip. They are:

BTMRR 9-10a

Haunted Mansion 10-11a

Space Mountain 11-12p

With a DAS intermittently I could easily get in 5-6 rides in a 3 hour period which is pretty good IMO, and similar to what people were accomplishing with the GAC.

I imagine it depends on how busy the parks are and getting FP+. We don't do the "thrill" rides so the only one on that list would be HM that we can do. We did get a FP+ for that one. Because we chose our FP+ online we couldn't even just walk up somewhere and change them or even look. We had to find a special machine to look to see if there were others available. the 3 FP+ I was able to get where in no way within a 3 hour period. LOL Ours were stretched out all day and this was booking them as soon as I was allowed to. I'm glad you got yours all within a 3 hour period. With my mom I can't keep her out all day to do rides. Like I said, we are at the parks 4 hours max and that's if I can keep her cool and not out on the sun all day.

We had went to AK one day and my older daughter went to get a FP for Dinosaur for just us two. There was none available so they told her to find a machine to see if there was any online for FP+. We track down a CM that knows what we are looking for and walk gosh like a mile to this machine. LOL We had to bring up my FP+ account and see if there were any Dino FPs we could get. This was at hmmm 2pm. The only ones available were at 8pm that night. There was no way we could stay that much longer. So all in all between DAS and FP+ it made for a not so happy trip. I love love love WDW and am sad this has changed to this but I'll get over it. Until my mom can't come with us on vacation we have just decided to move on to things she can do. After probably staying in the Polynesian for over a year of my life this will be a huge change for us. LOL

 

[DLRwish]

It's not all about ASD. They don't care about your diagnosis they care about your NEEDS! Quit looking at it and explaining based on a diagnosis. Start basing everything off the needs! If they have out a pass to everyone that says I can't wait in line, Disney would be in a world of hurt. Yes my child has ASD but my Aunt has Lupus, my other Aunt has Fibromyalgia, my mom has Hashimotos, and I battle with severe hypoglycemia. All of our NEEDS are different.

I understand there are frustrations. I am very concerned with our trip that starts Saturday but I have come to the conclusion that I can't make up my mind until I see it for myself. I will be stating my exact needs and I will not be telling them any diagnosis. Most of the CMs don't know the true effect that a disease has on the body, but they have heard SOMETHING about most. The little bit they do know may lead them to assume you don't need a DAS.

On a side note: I don't have ASD. It was theoretical.

That's my whole point!!!!! The point of my argument is that CM's are labeling Autistic children/adults as always eligible and base it on diagnosis, NOT needs. Realistically, not everyone with an a disorder in the Autism spectrum needs a DAS, BUT because Autism is the magic diagnosis, they are given one. I am not against those with Autism, am I against the contradiction CM's are doing..claiming that the DAS is NEED-based, when they're not applying that. ( Autism was an example of the problem that's been going around). And in response to another poster, this would be classified as discrimination towards other guests who DO need accommodations but are refused a DAS because they don't have Autism.

 

[aaarcher86]

On a side note: I don't have ASD. It was theoretical. That's my whole point!!!!! The point of my argument is that CM's are labeling Autistic children/adults as always eligible and base it on diagnosis, NOT needs. Realistically, not everyone with an a disorder in the Autism spectrum needs a DAS, BUT because Autism is the magic diagnosis, they are given one. I am not against those with Autism, am I against the contradiction CM's are doing..claiming that the DAS is NEED-based, when they're not applying that. ( Autism was an example of the problem that's been going around). And in response to another poster, this would be classified as discrimination towards other guests who DO need accommodations but are refused a DAS because they don't have Autism.

I don't think you're fully reading what I'm saying. What I said was that I think CMs are using the 'it's for autism' excuse when they turn down people who DO NOT qualify based on the needs they have presented. And again, I'm against them doing that. The reason that autism is the 'magic diagnosis' (which is embellished, since they don't ask for a diagnosis) is because cognitive issues are a part of that disability. I don't believe anyone can be on the spectrum and not have some kind of cognitive issue on some level. Not that it would necessarily be something they need a DAS for, but obviously they're there asking for one so that's kind of irrelevant. Also, autism is very prevalent. I imagine it holds a very high ratio of guests versus other disabilities in the parks when requesting a DAS considering the high rate of diagnosis.

If someone doesn't articulate their needs other than it being mobility than they will not be issued a DAS. If someone has a visual impairment they would not get the DAS. If someone has a hearing disability they would not get the DAS. Not giving the DAS in these situations and others would not be discrimination. They offer separate and appropriate things for these issues. If someone says 'my son gets very anxious, flustered, and becomes aggressive in lines. He needs to be continually stimulated versus standing in a tight que. He has social anxiety and has a very hard time being touched or bumped by strangers, etc' the CM has no idea if the boy has autism or something else.

The stories of people not being issued a DAS legitimately when articulating their needs properly is very low and happen even less frequently as time has gone on. If you feel this strongly that you have been discriminated against I'd suggest emailing the disability department with your concerns.

 

[FrugalFashionista]

On a side note: I don't have ASD. It was theoretical. That's my whole point!!!!! The point of my argument is that CM's are labeling Autistic children/adults as always eligible and base it on diagnosis, NOT needs. Realistically, not everyone with an a disorder in the Autism spectrum needs a DAS, BUT because Autism is the magic diagnosis, they are given one. I am not against those with Autism, am I against the contradiction CM's are doing..claiming that the DAS is NEED-based, when they're not applying that. ( Autism was an example of the problem that's been going around). And in response to another poster, this would be classified as discrimination towards other guests who DO need accommodations but are refused a DAS because they don't have Autism.

I agree not all ASD kids need a DAS. And bc it does seem to be the magic diagnosis I am very concerned. This could lead to people faking needs easily bc they know ASD will get them a DAS (which I have read ppl have done...with no remorse!). My son is higher functioning than most ASD children and I am hoping our use of the DAS (if granted) will be minimal. I have no intent if using it when he is functioning well. However he does have spacial and sensory issues causing him to get overloaded and meltdown. When this happens it is overwhelming for everyone near him.

I hate being a guinea pig for any new program yet here I am! A new DAS system, magic bands (that are only semi-functional), and staying at a resort no longer giving out KTTW cards. I am beyond nervous and going in ready to stand my ground. I can't imagine what it's gonna be like :/

 

[SueM in MN]

Closing for a day because the thread is getting into arguments again.

 

[FrugalFashionista]

Day one...DAS worked great at HS. Only complaint...it took FOREVER to get it issued bc they went through EVERY detail. Poor lady could have saved her breath bc I have researched so much but they have to go through the same steps if it's your first time being issued.

 

[Rencie]

Hi everyone,
I'm a newbie here and am so thankful for this particular thread.
My family of 7 is headed to Disney World for the first time this June and we are way too excited. My hubs and I plan on telling our kids on Christmas. HOW EXCITING!
Anywho... Our oldest son, Matteo (12 yrs old), has CP, epilepsy and a ton of sensory issues and also uses a wheelchair for long walks. We are working with a psychologist and hope to have a plan down packed before our Disney trip to help keep him calm.
We have no problem waiting our turn in line, we actually like to use the wait time as an opportunity to play "eye spy" & similar relaxing/bonding games. However, I do like that we get to leave the line and wait elsewhere as Matteo has anxiety in crowds when not in motion. Do you think it would be helpful to have his neurologist write a script notating his anxiety issues?
Also, any tips on where to change him? He is diapered.
Thanks again everyone!

 

[Rencie]

Day one...DAS worked great at HS. Only complaint...it took FOREVER to get it issued bc they went through EVERY detail. Poor lady could have saved her breath bc I have researched so much but they have to go through the same steps if it's your first time being issued.

WOO HOO!!
So great to hear about your experience.
Thanks for the positive feedback.
Hope you have a great time during the rest of your stay.

 

[SueM in MN]

Hi everyone,
I'm a newbie here and am so thankful for this particular thread.
My family of 7 is headed to Disney World for the first time this June and we are way too excited. My hubs and I plan on telling our kids on Christmas. HOW EXCITING!
Anywho... Our oldest son, Matteo (12 yrs old), has CP, epilepsy and a ton of sensory issues and also uses a wheelchair for long walks. We are working with a psychologist and hope to have a plan down packed before our Disney trip to help keep him calm.
We have no problem waiting our turn in line, we actually like to use the wait time as an opportunity to play "eye spy" & similar relaxing/bonding games. However, I do like that we get to leave the line and wait elsewhere as Matteo has anxiety in crowds when not in motion. Do you think it would be helpful to have his neurologist write a script notating his anxiety issues?

If it makes you feel more comfortable to have a note from his doctor, that is OK, but be prepared that the CMs (Cast Members) do not need it and will in all likelihood not look at it.

If you haven't looked at post one of this thread, that has the DAS FAQs

Also, any tips on where to change him? He is diapered.
Thanks again everyone!

There is a First Aid station in each park. That will be your best place. They have private rooms with cots where you can change him.

You can find out more helpful in formation in the disABILITIES FAQs thread. You can find a link to that thread in my signature.

 

[Rencie]

If it makes you feel more comfortable to have a note from his doctor, that is OK, but be prepared that the CMs (Cast Members) do not need it and will in all likelihood not look at it. If you haven't looked at post one of this thread, that has the DAS FAQs There is a First Aid station in each park. That will be your best place. They have private rooms with cots where you can change him. You can find out more helpful in formation in the disABILITIES FAQs thread. You can find a link to that thread in my signature.

Thanks so much Sue! I'll go read the post in further detail when time allows instead of skimming.

 

[FrugalFashionista]

Hi everyone, I'm a newbie here and am so thankful for this particular thread. My family of 7 is headed to Disney World for the first time this June and we are way too excited. My hubs and I plan on telling our kids on Christmas. HOW EXCITING! Anywho... Our oldest son, Matteo (12 yrs old), has CP, epilepsy and a ton of sensory issues and also uses a wheelchair for long walks. We are working with a psychologist and hope to have a plan down packed before our Disney trip to help keep him calm. We have no problem waiting our turn in line, we actually like to use the wait time as an opportunity to play "eye spy" & similar relaxing/bonding games. However, I do like that we get to leave the line and wait elsewhere as Matteo has anxiety in crowds when not in motion. Do you think it would be helpful to have his neurologist write a script notating his anxiety issues? Also, any tips on where to change him? He is diapered. Thanks again everyone!

My son has crowd anxiety due to a completely different diagnosis. From the experience I have had (we are here now) I wouldn't even mention the diagnosis. I never had to with my son. I simply told them that he has sensory stimulation issues that worsen with spatial stimulation. He does not like people he doesn't know in his space but has no issues invading theirs! I also explained that he has elimination struggles.

 

[FrugalFashionista]

WOO HOO!! So great to hear about your experience. Thanks for the positive feedback. Hope you have a great time during the rest of your stay.

Day two went great too! Magic Kingdom today. While there was quite a bit of waiting, it was nice to wait in shops or have a snack.

 

[keishashadow]

Hey - Since i have a DAS ( for DL though my needs are not going to change in WDW, I am assuming I will get one there as well), AND a wheelchair, will FP+ make any difference for my and my family (total of 4) for Fantasmic? Or would I just be put in the wheelchair line anyway? ...

!

We were issued a DAS back in October the 1st day they started and were told by the CM it would be 'in the system' and to bring it back on our next trip (which will be in 3 weeks!). We asked what if we decide to visit DL next year and were told to take it along.

From your research, have you read any accounts WDW is accepting the previously issued DAS cards and reissuing new one as long as nothing has changed? Just wondering if we have to go thru the full process again and will plan our arrival time at the park accordingly/

 

[delmar411]

We were issued a DAS back in October the 1st day they started and were told by the CM it would be 'in the system' and to bring it back on our next trip (which will be in 3 weeks!). We asked what if we decide to visit DL next year and were told to take it along.

From your research, have you read any accounts WDW is accepting the previously issued DAS cards and reissuing new one as long as nothing has changed? Just wondering if we have to go thru the full process again and will plan our arrival time at the park accordingly/

We have had both ways of getting the pass renewed. I have posted in this thread about them. This past time we renewed at HS and did not have to requalify, the CM just renewed it. So either all the cast is not on the same page or others have complained and they reassessed the process.

 

[keishashadow]

Delmar - thank you, I only went back a few pages to check, cookies to bake....along with how the thread does really tug at me. I've tried to avoid it, find reading so many heart-felt but pain-filled comments saddening.

 

[DisneyBiskit]

I love the new DAS system. It has been very beneficial for me with my back issues. If you are going to the DLR, I strongly suggest that you go to the Chamber of Commerce at DCA rather than City Hall at DL. I never have had to wait too long, and due to that, I believe they are more patient and friendlier there. Even on busy days, I dont feel "pressured" to be in a line. I love that I can get a return time for any attraction and then go do something else, even if its just to sit and chill. I have used it twice and I have not had an issue. I always save the card and present it the next time I go. It makes it easier for me and the CM when I get a new card.

 

[delmar411]

Delmar - thank you, I only went back a few pages to check, cookies to bake....along with how the thread does really tug at me. I've tried to avoid it, find reading so many heart-felt but pain-filled comments saddening.

I just wanted to let you know that we renewed at MK just yesterday and the CM there did not ask us to requalify. He seemed relieved to have such an easy task to deal with. I'm sure being in GR this past week has been rough.

 

[englishrose47]

Renewing isn't an option for me as I take a different group of Developmentally Disabled each year !! However as their Disabilities are perhaps more obvious we did NOT have a hard time l in October other than they did not know how to handle whose picture to take and took ours , which endwd up being a problem , so next time we will have 2 of the individuals pixtaken as we need 2 passes for 10 of us !!

 

[lovethattink]

Yesterday, I went to Epcot with a friend of mine from my home town and her family. They were on her son's MAW trip, so I got to see first hand how the Genie pass works.

It did not work as a front of the line pass. Instead, it worked as an unlimited fast pass. And since their son was unable to transfer, they also had the additional wait of waiting for an accessible car.

Their Genie pass did not work for shows or parades at WDW. In fact, on Christmas Eve they went to the MK and they got their parade spot 3 hours in advance and it was lousy. She asked a cm if they had anything special for MAW and Cody who was in charge of the disability section told her she should have come earlier for their spot.

They also would have liked to have seen the Candlelight Processional, but the Genie card did not work at shows. So they would have had to book a package or try waiting in standby. They did not know this before they got to the parks.

Sea World and Universal were different stories. There, they truly got front of the line service. In fact, at Universal, each time they went to an attraction, someone would walk them to an alternate entrance. So they even bypassed the front of the line queue.

They will be writing into Disney letting them know that their experience at WDW was far less magical than Universal's or Sea World's.

I know MAW itineraries don't come out until just before the trip. I know some MAW families get escorts and some don't. I know that some MAW families get reserved seating for shows and some do not. I just wanted to make those who's wish coordinator did not make advanced seating arrangements to know that for shows, parades, etc. the Genie will not work unless a cm is willing to make an exception.

ETA: Nobody told them about the Baby Care Centers or First Aid as available places for changing. I escorted them to the one at Epcot and it was so nice to have a table long enough to fit their son.

 

[mrspxyz]

I agree with lovethattink that sometimes Disney is not so magical. We have had our issues in Magic Kingdom with my son who is wheelchair bound and can not transfer onto many of the rides and leaving us to feel "magicless" at the time. However we do find the things he can do and enjoy them and have returned many many times to Disney.

I am very disappointed that Disney would allow a Make A Wish recipient not to be treated with royalty and extra special treatment. That is just down right wrong!!! The ones that truly deserve the special treatment miss out because of people before them who have tried to get special treatment undeserved. So sad.