Frustrated....

[SonicGuy]

I hope I'm missing something but I could use a little help. We've been going to DW for years, are DVC members and love Disney. We also have 2 special needs daughters - both in wheelchairs. Our youngest (10) is much more affected than our older daughter, who goes with us most of the time. Unfortunately due to her health, the younger doesn't get to go often.

Well this year she is doing great and getting to go for the first time in 4 years. Since then however she has had a G tube put in (eats only through a button in her stomach). She is also legally blind.

Here comes my frustration - we had to opt out of the dining plan because they will charge us for her - even though she cannot physically eat food. I can kinda understand this, I guess.

However today I went to change a reservation to go to the luau at the Poly and was told I had to pay the $70 plus for her to go as well. Remember she can't see the show or eat the food. We have a group of 10 going, so I'm already paying a ton.

Am I being overly sensitive? Am I missing something?

Sorry for the long rant, but I figured if anyone would understand it would be this group.

 

[aaarcher86]

They charge everyone for things like that. It's nothing personal. They just aren't opening up the door for people to feel they shouldn't be charged and ask for exceptions. Lots of adults ask of they can pay the child pricing for buffets because of gastric bypass, etc. With the amount of guests, it's just easier to have a flat answer - keeps expectations known and CMs from having to take the brunt of the decision.

It stinks in situations like this, but buffets and shows are always this way, regardless if how much they eat or might enjoy.

 

[emldrl]

I don't know if it would do any good, but could you call the disability services number, instead of the reservation number, and discuss it with them? Seems like something could be worked out, even if it's not standard practice. If they can't help, hey, no harm done.

 

[intheshadows]

Sometimes a little pixie dust may come your way and the charge for the non-eating child/adult will be waived.

(Please let me emphasize sometimes as it is at the discretion of the manager and asking for it at the restaurant will probably NOT help your case. Reason being--someone overhears, they will ask for the same favor for a different reason (i.e.: "picky eater" or the like) and then both will be declined)