Confused and nervous about applying for DAS!

[ellataylor]

I am planning to apply for DAS over the weekend for my DD.

I’m really nervous and hoping I get a kind CM! I’m not nervous about the outcome, if we are refused because she doesn’t qualify any longer then so be it. I’m just nervous about being able to explain her needs clearly and precisely enough.

I have written down her issues with waiting in lines so I have some back up.

I am confused as to whether I can use the term ASD or other diagnoses for context. I know the diagnosis alone doesn’t qualify but if I were to say her autism means x,y, and z for her is that acceptable? Or do I need to avoid diagnoses altogether?

TIA

 

[mistysue]

It's not like they will blow a foghorn if you say the word, but the effect of it's use would vary by the person you speak to. Just be honest about her NEEDS, and how she must be accommodated. Follow your notes and try to relax, as we all explain things better when we aren't panicking.

 

[Kerr84]

I mentioned my daughter’s different diagnoses when I was explaining her needs. They mostly care about the needs but it’s ok if you say a diagnosis.

 

[SueM in MN]

You can say the diagnosis if you want. The CM is not going to say, 'La-la-la, I can't hear that.'
You want to be prepared to discuss what concerns you have with waiting in the regular lines - not the symptoms of the condition, but what prevents her from waiting in line

 

[ellataylor]

Thank you for all your advice, it’s much appreciated.

The CM I spoke to was helpful and kind. She put me and DD at ease. I did end up mentioning her diagnoses but really in passing like saying “because of her autism this is what happens” etc

The questioning was definitely much more in depth which I think is a positive thing with regards to weeding out the scammers, even if it did make it a bit more nerve wracking.

Thanks again.

 

[ohdewer33]

Glad you had a good experience. Our DD is almost 28 and has been receiving DAS passes since she was 4. We still have some of the paper ones where you had to go to each attraction and the CM would write down the return time. Never feel ashamed or embarrassed about mentioning your DD's diagnosis. Our oldest daughter is a CM and will tell you that Disney is all about making sure their guests feel welcomed. They want you to have a magical experience and will try their best to make that happen.

 

[ellataylor]

Glad you had a good experience. Our DD is almost 28 and has been receiving DAS passes since she was 4. We still have some of the paper ones where you had to go to each attraction and the CM would write down the return time. Never feel ashamed or embarrassed about mentioning your DD's diagnosis. Our oldest daughter is a CM and will tell you that Disney is all about making sure their guests feel welcomed. They want you to have a magical experience and will try their best to make that happen.

Thank you, that’s really good to hear

 

[cindy17]

I am planning to apply for DAS over the weekend for my DD.

I’m really nervous and hoping I get a kind CM! I’m not nervous about the outcome, if we are refused because she doesn’t qualify any longer then so be it. I’m just nervous about being able to explain her needs clearly and precisely enough.

I have written down her issues with waiting in lines so I have some back up.

I am confused as to whether I can use the term ASD or other diagnoses for context. I know the diagnosis alone doesn’t qualify but if I were to say her autism means x,y, and z for her is that acceptable? Or do I need to avoid diagnoses altogether?

TIA

About how long did your daughter have to stay on video chat? My son is non verbal and has no concept of this process. I’m dreading it!

 

[Kerr84]

About how long did your daughter have to stay on video chat? My son is non verbal and has no concept of this process. I’m dreading it!

They only took my daughter’s picture. She is 4 and mostly nonverbal so she wouldn’t have said much if they tried.

 

[Maistre Gracey]

I just gotta ask… did the CM blow the fog horn..??

 

[elvispursley]

I just gotta ask… did the CM blow the fog horn..??

What this mean?

 

[SueM in MN]

I just gotta ask… did the CM blow the fog horn..??

What this mean?

The original poster asked if it was OK for her to mention her daughter was autistic. Another poster wrote, "it's not like they will blow a foghorn if you say the word" - attempt at humor

 

[elvispursley]

The original poster asked if it was OK for her to mention her daughter was autistic. Another poster wrote, "it's not like they will blow a foghorn if you say the word" - attempt at humor

lol—it’s been a few days since I read the op post but yes…funny now that I know the context

 

[nalababybear]

OP, glad you had a good experience during this upheavel and change of processes. It does sound like the new CMs are getting into the grove more too which is nice to see.

Am too interested how CM reacted when ASD was mentioned...did CM reaching for that buzzer?

 

[mjr0483]

I just had my DAS call on Tuesday.
In my discussion with the CM, I opened up the conversation with can I mention diagnosis since they (Disney) is saying on their own website mentions autism with "Learn how this service supports Guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar disorder".

He mentioned that yes I can include diagnosis in the conversation but said that diagnosis alone does not qualify for a DAS, but rather how does that diagnosis affect the applicants ability to wait in a conventional queue and how they react.

​

 

[SueM in MN]

I just had my DAS call on Tuesday.
In my discussion with the CM, I opened up the conversation with can I mention diagnosis since they (Disney) is saying on their own website mentions autism with "Learn how this service supports Guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar disorder".

He mentioned that yes I can include diagnosis in the conversation but said that diagnosis alone does not qualify for a DAS, but rather how does that diagnosis affect the applicants ability to wait in a conventional queue and how they react.

Thanks for your report.
As @lanejudy and I (and many people on this board) have always said, it's not the diagnosis, it's the issues/needs in line related to the disability.
People with the same condition/disability may have very different needs. It's not that the diagnosis can't be mentioned, it's that it's not a pertinent deciding factor

 

[gap2368]

I had my DAS interview today I have had the DAS in the past and this time I got it too the CM could see I had it in the past and said something like I know there is more question this time ( I was quite nervous and stimming some) she asked me how I felt with my disability at home and asked me further question about use in the park. I think if you are truthful in your answer you will be given the acomidation you need