Any suggestions for enteral feedings & DS?

[trnorbrn]

My son is a veteran traveler and did well in April at WDW. Is there anything I should know for June/July? I usually keep an ice pack in his backpack to keep his formula cool. We gave him extra boluses of gatorade for hydration last time we were there because he didn't like the heat and humidity.

He has Down Syndrome and I often will request a stroller pass to allow him to stay in his stroller while waiting in lines or viewing shows. We have not used the pass to enter the front of the line. Should we consider this?

Thank you for any tips, I feel like there is something more I should be planning for but it escapes me now.

 

[Cheshire Figment]

Hi and to disABILITIES!

If you click on where it says "disABILTIES" at the top of this page it will take you to the Index. One of the top items is the "disABILTIES FAQ" which will gives lots of useful information. Post #6 discusses the GAC at great detail.

You cannot get a GAC that allows Front of The Line Access. It specifically states on the GAC that it is not intended to bypass ines. The only GACs that allow FOTL access are those issued for children who are terminal or medically fragile and are on WISH trips.

Or, if you want an easier route, click on the link in my signature.

 

[mechurchlady]

The GAC would allow him to stay in his stroller which in itself is very beneficial. Make sure the seating does not retain heat. AT the Nurse's station you can leave a cooler with feedings stored instead of carting them around. They do not have refrigeration for food but can hold coolers. Cooling vests can help or changing shirts so as to get hot clothes off as well as airing out feet. Shoes can retain a lot of heat and get yucky uncomfortable.

Go early in the day or late at night and do not try to do too much. I was supposed to go to DLR at 8 am but slept in until noon as I was not up to speed. I could have dragged myself to the parks at 8 am and be grumpy or have half my daily sleep and some rest instead. 12 hours at the park is great unless you have limitations so just say no and leave while you are ahead.

Lots of planning and knowledge will make the trip a lot easier. Read the FAQs then come back with specific questions if you have any. I think you will have a great time.

 

[SandrA9810]

Most the time GAC does help you. But it does not work with characters. Some attendants will let you, but don't expect it. One exception is Mickey in toontown.

but it also depends on what stamp you get. There's a stamp that lets you use the stroller as a wheelchair, but there are also other stamps. Most newer rides are wheelchair accessable, from the normal stand-by lines. Some of the older rides have made the fast-pass line wheelchair accessible, and in some instances, there's a seperate entrance altogher like at haunted mansion, splash mountain, and test track for wheelchairs.

I've seen some people give a dirty look to those in wheelchairs. But with all the other medical issues and stuff you have to deal with, you generaly don't get much more than the able bodied person does.

And when we were there this past week with my brother on a feeding tube, it was very nice to go into the first aid center and take care of him. And it's usually very quiet in there and the nurses will spend time talking with you.

 

[trnorbrn]

Thankyou. I read about your trip with your brother. That is wonderful that you were able to be with him and have that experience. One of my big worries is if my other children will care for their brother once my husband and I are gone. It is good to see you have a bond together.

 

[D L and K's Mom]

The First Aid stations and the Baby Care Stations are a great place to cool off and rest for a little while if the heat is a bother. It is also a nice place to do a feeding if you need a nice quiet place. Good luck on the trip!!