My 7 year old son has a heart condition and is unable to wait in long lines and be out in the heat for too long. We take a lot of indoor breaks. In the past he was able to use the guest assistance card, but since the change over to DAS would he still be able to get some kind of assistance? I know there are a lot more restrictions now and I just want to be prepared as best as we can when we visit again.
disability assistance
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OurBigTrip
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To get the DAS, you'll need to be able to explain why he can't wait in the line. He'll still have to wait with a DAS, but you can choose where the wait takes place. They don't want a diagnosis, they want to know what his needs are.
Maggie'sMom
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What part of the 'long lines' is too difficult for him? You'll need to be able to explain exactly what it is about the queue that does not work, and why waiting in an alternate place (for approximately the same time as a standby time) will work.
The DAS does not shorten the wait, it just gives you a 'virtual queue' - so you can wait somewhere like in the place you would normally take an indoor break.
The good news is that a lot of the queues have AC and/or are shaded.
Also, FP+ allows you to book 3 attractions each day. If you stay onsite, you can do this in advance. If you are offsite, you can book at a park kiosk.
Also, getting to the parks at rope drop, and having a good touring plan are the best ways to avoid long lines in the first place.
The DAS does not shorten the wait, it just gives you a 'virtual queue' - so you can wait somewhere like in the place you would normally take an indoor break.
The good news is that a lot of the queues have AC and/or are shaded.
Also, FP+ allows you to book 3 attractions each day. If you stay onsite, you can do this in advance. If you are offsite, you can book at a park kiosk.
Also, getting to the parks at rope drop, and having a good touring plan are the best ways to avoid long lines in the first place.
Talking Hands
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To get a DAS you will need to explain what may happen if he is put in a long standby line. Not that he will overheat because we all overheat but what happens when he overheats. An example is with my diabetes. My sugar can drop low very quickly and must be treated immediately, so I explain what problems that could cause me waiting in lines.That type of description.
But doesn't that happen everywhere? Why would being in a queue be any different than being anywhere else? Wouldn't you have your supplies with you because you know it happens so quickly?
Ask at Guest Services. And then, if they say no to the DAS but you encounter problems during the first day, ask again at the next park on the next day, and then you can explain the exact problems you encountered.
If the problem with waiting in lines is something that could be solved with a wheelchair, then that would be a reason for him not to qualify for a DAS.
stitchlovestink
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Schmeck said:
I'm sorry but I have to agree with the other poster. I don't personally have diabetes but to expect someone to pull out all of their testing supplies in the middle of a moving line??!! Really??? That is not reasonable, nor safe! A person would need 8 hands! Based on what I have witnessed with my friend's diabetic child, they need to sanitize, use the glucometer, write the # down, then figure out what 'med' to use and see how much based on the #. So then they have to use a needle to draw the 'med' out of a little bottle and then inject it. And you think they should do all of this surrounded by hundreds of other people who will be moving around them??? That is preposterous! And let me say if I saw someone pulling a needle out in a crowded place like that, I would be addressing that with a LEAD CM. That is NOT safe for that person or anyone around them!
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No one is saying to force someone with diabetes to test or treat in one.
Many people with diabetes do test their blood sugar in line. The 'pokers' for getting blood for testing have self-retracting sharp points, so no exposed needle and only a drop or two of blood. Some people have monitors that can test without doing a poke at all.
A low blood sugar is an emergency that needs to be addressed right away by eating or drinking something that will bring up the blood sugar. Most diabetics carry items they can use for that with them.
A high blood sugar is not good, but is not an emergency. Even if they had to give insulin, many people with diabetes are on pumps, which means they instruct the pump to give a dose of insulin, or they may be using an insulin pen, which means dialing up the dose of insulin to give. No need for an exposed needle in either case.
Many people with diabetes do test their blood sugar in line. The 'pokers' for getting blood for testing have self-retracting sharp points, so no exposed needle and only a drop or two of blood. Some people have monitors that can test without doing a poke at all.
A low blood sugar is an emergency that needs to be addressed right away by eating or drinking something that will bring up the blood sugar. Most diabetics carry items they can use for that with them.
A high blood sugar is not good, but is not an emergency. Even if they had to give insulin, many people with diabetes are on pumps, which means they instruct the pump to give a dose of insulin, or they may be using an insulin pen, which means dialing up the dose of insulin to give. No need for an exposed needle in either case.
I think you would be overreacting - you probably wouldn't even notice the person pricking a finger to draw a tiny drop of blood. The PP stated the low sugar issue, which would not require sticking oneself with a needle.
What would the PP do if the sugar crash hit while on the attraction?
jcano
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DD has had Type 1 for over 8 years. We've tested her bg on ski slopes, in the middle of the Mexican food aisle at Wal-Mart, and in many lines at multiple amusement parks - including WDW. Wipe the finger with an alcohol wipe, lance her finger (no needle exposed) test the bg, and if low, eat something from her stash. If high, we deal with it after the ride. No big deal.
jcano
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Sorry for the high jack of the thread.
Most waiting areas are inside especially on the new rides, and from my understanding the DAS allows you to come back to the ride at a certain time which would allow you to take him somewhere cool to wait.
Hope your fam has a fabulous visit with the Mouse!
2tinkerbell
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Would you contact the Manager of a restaurant if you saw someone doing this prior to eating their meal? What about in Church? Would you call out to the Pastor? Like Sue stated, not a big deal.
I have a probe and I look either on the monitor or the app on my phone, I can adjust my pump accordingly. No one ever sees an exposed needle, blood, etc. Most Type 1 diabetics don't like people watching and commenting so they have learned to be discrete.
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Agree"
The following is the DAS FAQs from the WDW DAS thread stuck near the top of this board.
Walt Disney World - Disability Access Service Cards (DAS) FAQs
The information that follows is not 'official', but is as complete, up to date and accurate as possible.
Some is from documents already released by Disney and some from personal conversations with reliable sources. The Moderators are not employed by Disney and make no claims to be speaking for Disney.
items that are rumor will be labeled as rumor. Anything not labeled as rumor has been confirmed to be accurate, at least at the time of the last update. Disney can always change things, but we will try to keep the information as current as possible.
What is the Disability Access Service (DAS)?
This is Disney's new way of providing assistance to guests with disabilities that prevent them from waiting in a traditional line environment because of their disability.
The quick overview:
- Guests with a disability that prevents them from waiting in a traditional line environment will receive a DAS card with their photo on it.
- Person the DAS was issued to must actually be going on the attraction in order to use the DAS. It can't be used for the group to shorten their wait on attractions the DAS holder chooses not to or can't ride.
- Using the DAS card, the guest will be able to get a return time, based on the current wait time. That will allow the guest to wait in a place of their choice.
- It will work much like a Fastpass. (We are going to call the DAS return times Return Times to help differentiate them from Fastpass (FP) and Fastpass + (FP+)
- DAS can be used in addition to using Disney's Fastpass Service, so guests will be able to get a DAS Return Time and Fastpasses.
Fastpass + is currently in testing at WDW. Guests with disabilities who are part of the test can also use Fastpass +
No, you can't write or call ahead to get one.
If you have specific questions about the DAS program, you can email Disney at disability.services@disneyparks.com- not available at Downtown Disney, water parks or resorts
- issued at Guest Relations at Theme Parks (see below for locations)
- DAS card issued at one park is valid at any other Theme Park; do not need one for each park
- DAS card is only used at Theme Park attractions; not used at Water Parks, buses, restaurants or parking
Guest Relations locations inside and outside of the park are open during park hours.
You do need to go thru the security bag checkpoint to get to the outside of the park Guest Relations, but you don't need to actually enter the park. Once you are actually in the park area, look for Guest Relations in the 'wall' of the buildings that make up the outside wall of the park.
BE AWARE: There is no guarantee that a DAS can be issued at park Guest Relations outside of the parks. If it is busy, they try to send as many people as possible to Guest Relations inside of the park.*
Many people visiting the outside of the park location have ticket issues, which need to be resolved before they can enter the park. Those kinds of issues can be very time consuming.
So, if it's busy, they may limit the outside Guest Relations to only/primarily deal with ticket problems.
MK
Outside of the park Guest Relations is to the right when you face the front of the park after you go thru the bag check point.
Inside of the park Guest Relations is on the left in City Hall after you pass under the train station.
Epcot
Outside of the park Guest Relations is almost straight across from the monorail exit, on the right side of the park entrance. Bag check is closer to the left side of the park entrance; after going thru bag check, go right past the ticket booths and you will find it.
Inside of the park Guest Relations is to the left, after you pass Spaceship Earth.
There is also a Guest Relations booth at the International Gateway. First reports said they may NOT be issuing DAS cards there, but people have posted they did get one there.
DHS and AK
Outside of the park Guest Relations is to the left as you face the park entrance.
Inside the park Guest Relations is also to the left, soon after you pass thru to actually enter the park.
How do I request a DAS?
- person the DAS card is being requested for needs to be present, even if they can't talk
- you will be asked about your/the person's needs related to disability, not your diagnosis
- you may be asked "why are you requesting it?" - this does not mean they are asking what your disability is; they want to know what your needs are.
- For example, diabetes, autism and fibromylagia are not disabilities - they (like Cerebral Palsy, that is one of the conditions my DD has) are conditions that can cause a disability.
Not everyone with a condition has a disability. So, your task will be to explain how your conditions affect you in a way that causes a need for accommodations IN LINES.
- different people with the same diagnosis can have very different needs
- no proof or doctor's note is needed, and will not be looked at
- explain your needs clearly, calmly and concisely.
- include details the CMs will need, but don't include details that are not pertinent to waiting or accessing attractions.
*posters, please do not post exactly what you said to get a DAS - people need to explain their own needs. - there will not be any different stamps like GACs had; the person will either be issued a DAS card or not
- Guest (responsible person if guest is not able to sign) must sign terms and conditions on the DAS card which says they
- agree they understand how the program works
- agree to not abuse the DAS
- agree they will not use it for commercial gain (like leading tours) or give it to someone else
- DAS can be revoked if this contract is breached
- DAS will usually be issued for up to 6 (5 plus the person with a disability)
- Guest Relations will be able to make exceptions on a case by case basis, but will not be able to issue a DAS for more than 10.
- for example, 7 for a family of 2 adults and 5 children; 7 for family of 2 parents, 3 children, Grandma and Grandpa. (This was done for GACs on a case by case, exception basis)
- If a DAS is issued for more than 6, all members of the group must be present at the time the DAS is issued
- issuing a DAS for more than 6 Aldo requires a supervisor to approve
- front of the card will have a photo of the person the DAS is issued to, their name, date, location issued and number of guests in the party
- front will also have a list of terms and conditions.
- back of card will have spaces for writing Return Times.
- the card will be printed in Guest Relations and all the above information will be printed on the card
- DAS card is about 5x 7 inches, but can be folded to be slightly larger than the GAC card, which was 3.5 inches by 5 inches.
- the photo is taken with an iPad at Guest Relations and takes only a few seconds to take
- the reason for the photo is so they can make sure the person using the DAS is the person it was issued to
- if a person refuses to have their photo taken, reports at this point (10/11/13) are that
- the guest may have to show photo ID when getting the DAS and when using it
- the DAS may be valid for only one day
- a parent or guardian may have their picture taken instead
- DAS card will be issued for length of stay up to 14 days, depending on the guest's ticket entitlement/length of stay
- the system is set up yo allow for no more then 14 days, so the card can't be made valid for longer than that.
- 'proofs' given as an example included a resort key or something else showing dates for a stay; valid multiday park ticket
- guests, including those with Annual Passes, who don't have proof of length of stay may need to get a new card each day, but current information says they will also get a DAS card valid for up to 14 days.
- once all the Return Time spaces are filled, a new card will be needed, even if the old one is not expired. - Getting a replacement card reprinted will take less time than getting the original card (unconfirmed rumors say QR code on the card will allow a replacement to be printed quickly).
- DAS is for the use of the person it was issued to and can't be used for attractions they will not be going on/experiencing
- Guest using a DAS will get a Return Time for the attraction they want to visit, based on the current wait time
- Return times will be for the current wait time minus 10-15 minutes.
- At WDW, guests go the the attraction to obtain a return time
- kiosk or podium at Fastpass + area - the DAS holder (person whose name and picture is on the DAS does NOT have to be present to obtain a return time.
- would allow another member of the group to get a Return Time while the DAS holder is resting or doing something else.
- would allow the DAS holder to not approach the attraction until they will actually get in line
- Only 1 (one) Return Time can be written on the DAS at a time, which puts the DAS holder into a virtual 'standby queue'.
- Just like a guest actually standing in a standby queue, the DAS holder can't be in multiple standby queues at the same time.
- Just like a guest actually standing in a standby queue, the DAS holder can also get Fastpasses using the Fastpass System. - Once the Return Time has arrived, the DAS holder and their group go to the attraction to redeem the Return Time
- just like Fastpass, you won't be able to come earlier than the Return Time
- the CM at the return point will direct you to the Fastpass Return line or to an alternate entry, depending on the attraction
- CM will check the Return Time, look at picture on the DAS card and confirm that the DAS holder is going to ride/experience the attraction
- current reports (10/11/13) are that the first CM at the ride entrance will check the return time and check that the DAS is valid
- current reports (10/11/13) are that the CM at the Fastpass collection point will check the photograph to make sure the DAS holder is actually riding - the Return Time will remain active until it is used (you won't lose your spot if late)
- When a Return Time has been redeemed, it is crossed off and is no longer active.
- crossing off a Return Time also voids or cancels it and is the same as getting out of line
- when a DAS Holder has no active Return Times to redeem, they can get a new Return TIme
- a DAS holder can choose to cancel a DAS Return Time by crossing it off - If an attraction is broken or not in operation, there is no current standby time and the DAS holder will not be able to get a Return Time.
- UNCONFIRMED RUMOR, PROBABLY TRUE: If the DAS holder returns to an attraction and it is broken or not operating:
- a Fastpass to come back later will be given
- the DAS Return Time will be cleared, allowing the DAS holder to get another Return TIme - DAS holders will not be able to use DAS for Celebrity Autographs or most Character Meet & Greets (this is consistent with the way GACs worked)
- DAS holders will be able to get Return Times for Character Meet & Greets that have Fastpass or Fastpass Plus
- There will no longer be any stamps; guests with disabilities will either get a DAS or not
- Attraction based procedures and accommodations will be set up to handle guests who previously used stamps
- Guests needing assistance for visual or audio concerns will need to communicate their need to the attraction host
- Attraction CMs are receiving training on the DAS system and how to accommodate guests at their attraction.
I have a wheelchair, rollator, walker or ECV. Will I need a DAS card?
- If your only needs are mobility related, no you would not.
- Majority of mobility device users will not have other needs and would not receive a DAS card
- Cast Members (CMs) can see the mobility device and will direct you to the correct place.
- Guidemap for Guests with disabilities available for each park lists the 'Mobility Entrance' for each attraction
- MK and Epcot are older parks and has a few attractions that are not accessible thru the main (Standby) line.
- Animal Kingdom and the Studio were built with mostly Mainstream (accessible) lines and guests whose only needs are mobility based will use those Mainstream Lines. - Depending on attraction, guest may:
- be waiting in the Mainstream queue
- receive a return time at the attraction (NOT at a kiosk)
- Strollers are not usually allowed inside buildings or in most queues, but can be if needed because of disability.
- may be helpful to create a 'safe haven' for a child with cognitive/sensory disabilities or autism
- may be needed by children with disabilities that affect muscle tone or stamina - Sticker tag will be placed on the stroller to show it is being used as a wheelchair.
- park rental strollers would need a new sticker each day
- personal strollers in the past were usually tagged for the length of stay. THIS will probably continue. - If the only needs are mobility related, the child will not need a DAS; they will just need the sticker.
- If only for mobility related needs, the guest would follow the information above for guests using wheelchairs.
- if the child has additional needs besides using the stroller as a wheelchair, they would need a DAS card.
- With a 'stroller as a wheelchair', you will be able to:
- take the stroller in all lines and buildings, even if strollers are not usually allowed
- use wheelchair entrances.
- use the stroller until boarding. The child may need to be removed to board a ride, but you can leave the stroller at the boarding area. You won't need to fold it, but should take anything of value.
- use the stroller in shows and sit in the wheelchair seating areas. The child may need to get out of the stroller and sit on an adult's lap if the stroller seat is too low. Most shows have limited numbers of wheelchair spots, so wheelchair spots are sometimes filled before other seats are filled.
- use wheelchair areas for parades. Wheelchairs and strollers are usually parked very close together across the front of the viewing area. If your child needs to be away from others, this may not work for you, or you may need to park behind the front row to get more space. Areas sometimes fill quickly, so arrive early.
buffettgirl
The whole tag thing, so 1990's internet.
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This is the most bizarre thing I've ever heard. Most parents of children with diabetes will tell you that they can check blood sugar without even looking, while using one hand, in the dark. No one sanitizes. No one writes down numbers in this situation, and drawing up insulin, most parents will tell you taht they can also do it with one hand tied behind their back, in a snowstorm, and shoot the needle across the room at a moving target. It's something we do ALL DAY LONG. It's not a novel event. And none of us call insulin "meds".
agreed.
Agreed. We often use lines as a way to force down time, to treat lows while doing nothing, in a shaded, often air conditioned location. I test wherever we are, and whatever we're doing, if we need to test. It's not magic. My son gets his blood glucose tested by finger prick approximately 10times a day. We're not hermits. Many of those checks happen during routine events. I've even managed to check while driving the car. It's not rocket science.
Glad I didn't run into you when I was injecting myself with my fertility drugs in the parks. I did them in lines, while waiting for a parade, or the bus etc. i used a pen like many diabetics. Dialed the dose injected and was done probably before you would notice. In high school I was friends with a boy that had type one diabetes and he tested and have himself insulin pretty much every where, lunchroom, classroom, sidelines of the basketball game (he was a starter). It's life.
Oh, the horror.
I dated a diabetic once and have to admit he gave himself insulin shots sitting or standing right next to me multiple times before I ever realized what he was doing. The first time I caught on was a little shocking, but more because I felt like an idiot than from some sort of moral outrage.
OP, I can't recall if you said when you are going, but if the lines are mostly a heat concern I would try to list a few rides with queues that are not as temperature controlled and give those as examples when talking to the CM about your needs. As seen here, saying no waiting/heat everybody says "most lines are fine" - but you wouldn't want to be stuck in a long line for the safari at AK, Kali river rapids, playhouse Disney, beauty and the beast, I felt like a lot of the line for splash mountain was hot, or the enchanted tales with belle all for examples. There are certain lines that are almost fun and relaxing in the shade or cool air, so it might be something you only need for the no breeze/wall to wall people, icky heat factor lines.
stitchlovestink
DIS Veteran
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Well I am going by what I have seen my friend do with her child for almost 20 years now. She doesn't use those pre measured needles you guys speak of. She has tiny glass bottles with what appears to be a rubber insert that she sticks the needle into and draws out the medicine. Depending on her child's number will depend on what they give. They don't always use just insulin. They have been told by the Dr's to write everything down. Granted her child is a case study at a world renowned hospital. But other diabetics I know also always write their numbers down as well.
My point is the needle I have seen used is the same that they use to give injections at the Dr's or at a hospital. Trying to inject something that substantial in a line of moving people is not safe IMO (an opinion to which I am entitled and you are entitled to disagree. BUT that doesn't make me wrong and you right!) My friend said she would not have to want to attempt to do what she needs to surrounded by that crowd of people. She said she would not feel it was safe for her, the child or those immediately next to them.
My point is the needle I have seen used is the same that they use to give injections at the Dr's or at a hospital. Trying to inject something that substantial in a line of moving people is not safe IMO (an opinion to which I am entitled and you are entitled to disagree. BUT that doesn't make me wrong and you right!) My friend said she would not have to want to attempt to do what she needs to surrounded by that crowd of people. She said she would not feel it was safe for her, the child or those immediately next to them.
OurBigTrip
DIS Veteran
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Based on my own experience, and that of others on this thread, I would say that your friend's routine is the exception, not the rule.
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