DAS for Brain Tumor

[EpcotQueen]

My SIL has had 2 surgeries for an incurable brain tumor. He would like to go to WDW one last time. We will get an ECV for him but his tolerance level is low. I've had no experience with DAS. Do you think he would be eligible and if so, what would be involved? And does anyone know if he needed to lie down for an hour or so if he can in first aid?

 

[OurBigTrip]

My SIL has had 2 surgeries for an incurable brain tumor. He would like to go to WDW one last time. We will get an ECV for him but his tolerance level is low. I've had no experience with DAS. Do you think he would be eligible and if so, what would be involved? And does anyone know if he needed to lie down for an hour or so if he can in first aid?

Based on what have other people have experienced, I wouldn’t expect him to be approved for DAS, but it doesn’t hurt to try.

 

[theMoreDisneytheBetter]

DAS is not for stamina related issues, so if “his tolerance is low” relates to that then he is unlikely to be approved. However, if the tumor has caused behavioral issues that impact his ability to wait in line then that may be another matter.

First aid is probably an option, though depending on where you are staying it may be worth taking a mid day break back at the hotel instead. It would certainly be more comfortable. Disney is much more exhausting than a “normal” day for most, and he may find that he benefits from more time in the peace and quiet.

 

[lanejudy]

You might want to consider a wheelchair vs an ECV. Having someone else push would allow him to take a mental break without needing to focus on where he's going, who might run into him, etc. Driving an ECV can be exhausting mentally because you always have to be "on" and alert to everything/everyone around you.

 

[hardcorestitch]

My SIL has had 2 surgeries for an incurable brain tumor. He would like to go to WDW one last time. We will get an ECV for him but his tolerance level is low. I've had no experience with DAS. Do you think he would be eligible and if so, what would be involved? And does anyone know if he needed to lie down for an hour or so if he can in first aid?

I would recommend toning down the rides and attractions in your itinerary when scripting your visit to WDW in this case. If he can’t handle an attraction, he doesn’t have to go on it. There are lots of other great things to enjoy in Disney outside of park gates.

 

[gottalovepluto]

You might want to consider a wheelchair vs an ECV. Having someone else push would allow him to take a mental break without needing to focus on where he's going, who might run into him, etc. Driving an ECV can be exhausting mentally because you always have to be "on" and alert to everything/everyone around you.

Only if someone in the party is experienced pushing a wc or in very good shape. Many people underestimate the physical drain pushing a wc all over WDW is.

 

[gottalovepluto]

The new guidance parroted out most often these days seems to be DAS is for people who do not understand what a line is. Now, that doesn’t cover all approvals, we have some people here approved who certainly do not fit into that category so nothing is stopping you from applying for a DAS- but expect not to be approved.

 

[Pea-n-Me]

There are some “Make a Wish” type charities for adults.

https://cancercarenews.com/ccn-blog/make-a-wish-programs-for-adults/

I wish you and your family a very nice trip.

 

[lanejudy]

Only if someone in the party is experienced pushing a wc or in very good shape. Many people underestimate the physical drain pushing a wc all over WDW is.

I realize it can be challenging for the pusher; hopefully there are multiple adults who can share that duty. However the advice stands for the same reasons people with that diagnosis typically aren’t allowed to drive a car. It takes a lot of concentration to drive an ECV in a crowded theme park, through queues, etc. For his safety as well as others.

 

[LuvOrlando]

When you are filling out the forms pretend the diagnosis doesn't exist and instead describe all the parts of this persons life which are altered by the health issue. Consider their senses, what is changed. Consider how they experience the world, what has changed. Be specific and don't hold back to be polite.

Back when I was first disabled the diagnosis conveyed what was going on but today they don't want a diagnosis. Now what is wanted is a play by play of how being in an outdoor weather exposed theme park environment with long lines can be disruptive to the person and other guests. Most people think it is cut and dry and often this is an oversimplification, really think about all the ways this persons life has been altered before applying.

Oh, and if you haven't yet consider asking the Dr for a disability placard to help you manage, they can be very helpful when getting through an airport and some airports have discounted parking. Also, many facilities have free or discounted valet parking which helps so much

 

[gap2368]

I have used first aid to lay down but it was for 20-30 minutes not sure if they would let him for an hour+.