Can you get a gac that will allow the new fast pass time extension

[mackay_j]

We have always tried to return to rides inside the fastpas window, however due to my daughters medical needs, diabetic with potassium level issues (fits) both of which mean we have to take time outs for food and recovery. And as a result on a few occassions we have missed our time slot. In the past that wasn't an issue but I have read that it is now, thus I'm wondering if there is a gac which could cover this.

 

[SueM in MN]

No one has reported anything, but it does sound like it would be a reasonable accommodation.

 

[I Love Pluto]

I don't think they have a stamp for that - but - I agree that it sounds extremely reasonable. I would safely assume that Guest Relations could put that on your GAC. Have a great trip!

 

[levenhopper]

Has anyone tried this? Did they allow the extended FastPass time as an accommodation on the GAC?

 

[A Mickeyfan]

so they allow accommodations for eating? I don't mean to sound harsh, but wouldn't that fall under the same as a weak bladder? They don't allow you anything for that? I know I am hypoglycemic and have potassium issues too.. and have never even dreamed of asking for that. I have been dealing with these issues since I was 21, I am now 55 I always carry something in my bag to eat while I am online (or anytime for that matter) when I feel my sugar starting to drop, be it crackers, fruit, fruit snacks, peanut butter sandwich.. something. I do understand that diabetes is different, but how would a GAC help for that and potassium issues? what would it do for you? you would just have to be sure she ate something prior to your time slot (or carry with you in a bag), just as in a weak bladder, you must use the rest room prior to entering the attraction

 

[Random Ninja]

so they allow accommodations for eating? I don't mean to sound harsh, but wouldn't that fall under the same as a weak bladder? They don't allow you anything for that? I know I am hypoglycemic and have potassium issues too.. and have never even dreamed of asking for that. I have been dealing with these issues since I was 21, I am now 55 I always carry something in my bag to eat while I am online (or anytime for that matter) when I feel my sugar starting to drop, be it crackers, fruit, fruit snacks, peanut butter sandwich.. something. I do understand that diabetes is different, but how would a GAC help for that and potassium issues? what would it do for you? you would just have to be sure she ate something prior to your time slot (or carry with you in a bag), just as in a weak bladder, you must use the rest room prior to entering the attraction

The OP is concerned about the new fast pass rules. Fast passes used to be usable anytime after the start of the 1-hr return time but now they must be used within the return time. If they planned to be back during the scheduled time but couldn't due to DD diabeties, could they get a GAC that allows them to use FPs after the return time?

I haven't heard of anyone getting that accomodation but it does seem resonable since that is a legitimate medical issue. Explain to the CM at GS what you need and see if they can accomodate. I'd be surprised if they can't. Maybe someone else can chime in with a recent experience. OP, can you share you share your experience when you get back? I'm sure there are others who are wondering about accomodations for the new FP rules too.

 

[Mary976]

We actually have gotten something like what the OP is describing in the past. We had an issue where if DD had to get out of line for meds, then we would "lose" our fast pass because we had already turned it in. In those cases, the CM would give us another fast pass and tell us we could use it anytime.

The catch is, the CM on the scene would usually see that DD was having problems, plus this was before the fastpass system was as strict. All that being said, it does seem like a reasonable idea. Just not sure how it would work logistically.

Mary

 

[chloelovesdisney]

It will be interesting to hear if this is allowed, since essentially almost anyone with a disability could claim they had issues during their fast pass time and need an extension.

 

[toocherie]

It will be interesting to hear if this is allowed, since essentially almost anyone with a disability could claim they had issues during their fast pass time and need an extension.

Well, shouldn't they? Ok, let's say I'm in line out here in California for the new Radiator Springs Racers -- the fastpass time may be up to an hour in some cases. (I mean AFTER you get in the fastpass line!) If I am in line and have an issue (for example, weak bladder) would you rather I wet myself rather than lose my place in line? Because that is the alternative. Instead, shouldn't I be able to get out of the fastpass line to relieve myself and not lose my fastpass "right?" I don't think it's "everyone with a disability"--from what I've experienced most disabilities are either mobility or spectrum related. In the former case there shouldn't be an issue; in the latter case there could be an issue if the line is as long as indicated and the child or adult can't be in a confined area for so long (or can't be in the sun---most of the queue is in the sun). For shorter Fastpass return lines I agree there shouldn't be much of a problem--and I am sure people will be careful about using facilities before getting in the line etc. But there are times you can't "time" the need to go--and if there is an urgent need I know what my choice would be.

 

[kaytieeldr]

toocherie, I think the difference is you were already in the FastPass line (an hour? how long is standby???). Most CMs are apparently great about accommodating a need once you're in the FP queue. What the OP was seeking was an exemption to the return window enforcement.

I do understand people saying the request seems reasonable. On the other hand, all other guests are advised to look at the return window before obtaining the FastPass to be sure they'll be able to get back during the window. Some of those guests, despite their best intentions, end up missing the return window.

 

[SueM in MN]

toocherie, I think the difference is you were already in the FastPass line (an hour? how long is standby???). Most CMs are apparently great about accommodating a need once you're in the FP queue. What the OP was seeking was an exemption to the return window enforcement.

I do understand people saying the request seems reasonable. On the other hand, all other guests are advised to look at the return window before obtaining the FastPass to be sure they'll be able to get back during the window. Some of those guests, despite their best intentions, end up missing the return window.

I was thinking that the OP meant having to leave the line before giving up the Fastpass (I.e. they got into line to use the Fastpass at the 'correct' and something happened that meant they had to leave the line).

 

[chloelovesdisney]

I was thinking that the OP meant having to leave the line before giving up the Fastpass (I.e. they got into line to use the Fastpass at the 'correct' and something happened that meant they had to leave the line).

Maybe I misunderstood, it sounds to me like she is asking if they can arrive after the window.

 

[crashbb]

Maybe I misunderstood, it sounds to me like she is asking if they can arrive after the window.

That's how I read it as well - especially since they say that they are asking because WDW is now enforcing the return time and talk about "missing the time slot".

 

[SueM in MN]

I responded the first time on a quick break on my iPhone, so could have easily misunderstood reading on the small screen.

 

[LockShockBarrel]

Really not trying to stir the pot here. Maybe weak bladder is a bad example from PP because I'd hope you wouldn't wet yourself just as much as a small child wouldn't wet themselves. Yeah it's coming from 2 different reasons but I don't see where one is more an acceptable reason for a CM allowing you back in line.

 

[kaytieeldr]

I don't think, though, that the issue is being let back in line. chloelovesdisney and crashbb are reading the original question the same way I am: that the OP wanted to know if there's a GAC [stamp] that would exempt them from returning to the attraction within the designated window completely. Having to leave the FP line is an entirely different matter, usually easily resolved.

 

[kellyw8863]

I also read the op as looking for an accommodation to be exempt from enforced return times. I will be interested to see how this plays out, as we will be looking for a similar accommodation when we go next April. I think it is an entirely reasonable accommodation for those whose health issues can be severe and unpredictable, especially considering the GAC does not offer shortened wait times and the best bet for families in this situation is to follow a good touring plan.

 

[ttintagel]

I had been wondering the same thing. If I've got five minutes left until the end of my FP window, and I'm what would normally be a four-minute walk away and my BG crashes - even though I've got fast-acting carbohydrates with me, sometimes a really low BG can make me unsteady on my feet for ten or fifteen minutes. I mean, I don't think it would happen on a regular basis, but it's not out of the realm of possibility. Especially with all the factors that make BG's more unpredictable during a day at the parks.

I would certainly understand, and not feel cheated or anything, if the CM decided not to give me a break. But I'd be interested to know what the OP finds out about whether there's a policy or not.

 

[lanejudy]

I also read the OP as not making it back within the FP window and therefore wanting a GAC to allow for an "expired" FP. It's an interesting question and I'm not sure anyone has posted a similar experience here yet, so it will be interesting to hear if this is accommodated. On one hand, I can see that it may be reasonable because it is related to a medical condition, but on the other hand it goes along with planning. People who may need frequent or urgent restroom breaks are instructed to plan for them and use the restrooms more often to try and avoid problems. I could also see how it might be important for OP to plan meals and snacks at timely intervals to potentially avoid the "diabetic with potassium level issues (fits)" her DD is prone to have. My DH is diabetic and my DD can have issues with low blood sugar, so we plan frequent small breaks to keep them both on track.

Planning meals/snacks is probably the best option for OP. Trying to keep meals and foods as typical as normal is likely important - eat at similar times as you do at home, eat similar foods and not go overboard with the treats and different snacks available in WDW. I would be surprised if a GAC is allowed to extend the FP times for such a reason, though it will be interesting to know if this was possible.

 

[levenhopper]

Planning meals/snacks is probably the best option for OP.

Exactly. But, at the same time, what if my FP time is when I've scheduled a meal for? Made a reservation, and already tweaked my insulin to fit the times. Others can try to adjust their reservation. However, I'd need to not only adjust my reservation, but also my insulin timing to fit the new reservation.