GAC or Not to GAC could/should she get one?

[HelenePA]

My oldest daughter was born with a congential heart defect (double outlet right ventricle, ASD, VSD, AV Canal, and pulmonary stenoisis "repaired" at 6 months old) She still has slight PS, but nothing that they would risk fixing right now, if they were to fix it they would do the cath and then just put in a shunt. She does get tired after walking, also gets sweaty... should I look into getting one for her? Would it keep her from standing in the hot sun for some rides. To be honest it didn't even cross my mind til now and its only 8 days away!

 

[Hook's Girl]

I don't want to post any GAC specifics here, but you might want to stop into Guest Relations when you get to the theme parks. There you can discuss different options and accomodations that are available. They are very knowledgeable and will be able to help you out! Have fun!

 

[OneLittleSpark]

I think a GAC could be very helpful for you. You should be able to get one to allow you to stay out of the sun as much as possible in queues, and you may also benefit from having a 'stroller as wheelchair' card / tag. The latter would allow you to use the stroller in queues and places such as the Land pavilion in EPCOT, that don't normally allow strollers. That should cut down on some of the stress to her body.

If heat would be a problem, try running a search on the boards, as there have been a number of previous threads on heat control. The best things to do would be to keep the sunshade over her, drink lots of water, keep a wash cloth handy so you can wash when needed and possibly get a personal fan.

If you haven't already, take a look at the FAQ near the top of the board for more information on GACs.

Good luck and have a great time!

 

[SueM in MN]

There is a lot of information about GACS (Guest Assistance Cards) in the disABILITIES FAQs thread. That should answer all your questions.

In general, think about her needs, not her diagnosis. If you request a GAC, it would be based on the needs that she has and what sorts of things WDW can provide that would help meet those needs. Keep in mind that if you do get a GAC, you still need to worry about getting from place to place in the sun/heat. You should look into borrowing or renting a pediatric wheelchair or special needs stoller (or renting a regular stoller in the parks). There are links to places to rent wheelchairs in the disABILITIES FAQs thread or you may be able to get one to bring from home. There is a lot of walking involved, even just at your resort, so you want to be aware of and plan for that.

 

[Vemnox]

Go into a Guest Relations Lobby and explain your NEEDS (not the diagnosis, per se) and they will give you the proper accomodations (if applicable).