DAS for Diabetics

[Brittany Benoit]

hello! This is my first time here. I have type 1 diabetes and I was wondering if I would qualify for DAS? I have to continuously monitor my sugar and take medication when needed.

It’s hard for me to stand for very long periods of time because my legs begin to swell and my glucose begins to drop to dangerous levels. I wasn’t sure on how strict Disney is with DAS.

 

[AnneK]

If you you cannot stand for a long period of time they will likely recommend a wheelchair. Even with a DAS you will be spending a LOT of time on your feet while at Disney.

 

[LongLiveRafiki]

DAS isn't based on diagnosis but rather one's needs in regards to waiting in lines. If your needs have anything to do with mobility, the recommendation is likely to be a mobility device such as a rollator, wheelchair, or ECV. Given that Disney guests walk upwards of 10 miles a day in the parks and there's very little seating anywhere, a DAS doesn't really address issues with standing.

I've dealt with non-diabetic hypoglycemia for years, and it is most definitely worse when walking around all day at Disney. I would strongly recommend carrying things with sugar in case of a low and checking your levels often. I always carry a slower acting protein+carb snack (crackers and cheese or peanut butter for instance) plus something faster acting (hard candy or glucose tabs), so I have something to treat if necessary, depending on what my levels are. If I get really low, I'll eat the faster acting snack, them make sure to follow up with the carb+protein to sustian it and prevent me from crashing. The most important thing is to test frequently, and if you have someone with you, make sure they know what your symptoms are and how to help if you are having a low.

 

[Mrsjvb]

the only thing DAS will accommodate is being unable to wait in a standard line that is NOT mobility related. those who cannot stand for long periods are considered to have a mobility issue.

 

[Selket]

The DAS is based on need and with type 1 diabetes the needs of the person can vary widely. My son has type 1 and we go to WDW a lot and the DAS can be a useful tool. I agree with carrying glucose, etc. as I'm sure you know to do so. All of the exercise, the heat, the guessing at carbs...can make it a challenging trip. Some days are trouble free and others are not. He doesn't have the issue of swelling legs so that falls more under a mobility issue - perhaps renting an ECV or other device would be useful.

As always try to maximize your fast passes to minimize your wait times in lines. Also being there at rope drop (if you want to ride a lot or things that typically have long waits). Sometimes we've paid for the "after hours" or "before hours" experiences to minimize waits (this is great if you or your child wants to ride something 10x in a row haha!). Now that my son is older we also do the single rider lines for some things (Expedition Everest is a good one). Explain to guest services how a DAS would help you if you find you need it. Feel free to PM me if you have more questions about type 1 and WDW.

Also there is a fantastic conference usually held at WDW for those with type 1 and their families - https://childrenwithdiabetes.com/conferences/friends-for-life-orlando-2019/ The upcoming one is in July at the CSR resort. There are workshops for every age group of persons with type 1 (toddler to adult) and also for parents/care-givers/grandparents of those with type 1. It's definitely worth a trip if you haven't been.

 

[redberyl]

I know some diabetics who get DAS and others who dont. So it really depends on your specific needs. If you think it would be helpful, i would ask for it but have a backup plan in case they deny it

 

[gap2368]

hello! This is my first time here. I have type 1 diabetes and I was wondering if I would qualify for DAS? I have to continuously monitor my sugar and take medication when needed.

It’s hard for me to stand for very long periods of time because my legs begin to swell and my glucose begins to drop to dangerous levels. I wasn’t sure on how strict Disney is with DAS.

In would say your better getting a mobility device since you can not stand for a long time