First, I want to say a few things in direct reply.
— Queues are an inherent part of Disney World Attractions (rides and shows) and, for the most part, food services. We all go there knowing there are long lines.
— DAS, in its past and present form of being able to wait outside the long standby queue is a relief and would be a welcome relief to many, both disabled, elderly, very young or even able bodied. Long queues are tough on everybody. I want to repeat that so we all know this is an important point: long queue lines are hard on everyone.
— Disney’s decision to limit the offer of DAS to a specific need based group is not cruel. Losing DAS is not cruel.
— The issue of whether or not you are disabled is not being challenged. Yes, you are disabled.
— DAS is not an accommodation available to you.
— But, not being able to enjoy a DAS level of relief is a loss and we recognize that loss. Your feelings of loss, anger, bitterness or however you are feeling is valid, legitimate and understandable. You suffered a loss important to you. I do not mind reading your post expressing your loss even if there is some anger in it. This is just social media.
— However, in the real world you need to recognize and draw the line. There are boundaries that should not be crossed. I totally agree with others that it is not OK to act on that emotional response to “do what you need to do” implying possibly being untruthful to Disney to get DAS.
— Recognize your loss and adjust.
In a more gentle tone, recognize that people who are not able to go on rides or enjoy some other attractions do still go and enjoy the parks.
The good people here have — rightly — convinced me not to apply for DAS. In the past, I probably would have qualified and so would my husband. However, with the current DAS program, it is equally clear I do not qualify.
There are many days we go to the parks and only stay 2 or so hours — and never hit a single attraction. Not one. I might buy a meal or a snack only. Sometimes just a walk is all I can do.
I have a brand new
ECV sitting in my garage, but I have not yet taken it to the parks because it still intimidates me. My arthritis is so bad sometimes I cannot lift my arm to hang onto the tiller to manage the controls. Walking back to my car can be a major struggle. Once in a while a Disney courtesy golf car appears and helps me get to our car from the tram or even from the park exit gate. One supervisor gave me his number to call if I needed help. In my experience, Disney goes over the top to help. Not offering DAS to everyone who is disabled is completely understandable. They had to draw some lines — for everyone’s sake.
There are other accommodations for non-DAS-eligible disabilities. I have left many queues I could not complete for health reasons. I did try. I have had other guests who were complete strangers offer me a steady hand to help me get on or off a ride. They can see how frail and unsteady I am. But I am still going to the parks with my best effort.
This group taught me about AQR. I had never heard about it. I am delighted to know that if my blood sugar drops so low that I am in serious danger and cannot handle it in line that I might be able to take care of the crises and return to the line. That is just a theory for me so far. Usually, if it hits that hard and fast I need to go home immediately. But, it is nice to know Disney has that option.
Bottom line for me is I still enjoy being at WDW and I would never risk lying to get DAS and being banned just to try to avoid waiting in a standby line. I have many happy hobbies, sewing, quilting, embroidery, reading, gardening, growing roses, baking bread, bring warm out of the oven fresh bread to cheer the neighbors, etc, but Disney World is such a happy place for me.
I hope you try Disney World without DAS and with an attitude that you are going to do your best to make it work and enjoy what you can do. I also hope you can get past the DAS denial so Disney can be your happy place again. “Let it go.”
OUT.
