GAC with Crohn's Disease

[angelike1125]

I've had Crohn's for the past 10 years and have travelled to Disney about a dozen times (maybe more as a DVC member) during that time frame.

Lately it's been worse. Way worse with bathroom urgency issues. Would this condition be covered? Could I possibly gain access to bathrooms that aren't so spread out around the park?

I'd really like to get through our upcoming trip in September without any embarrassing grown-up accidents...

 

[geek+nerd]

A GAC is to be used at attractions. It doesn't have anything to do with restroom access.

 

[crashbb]

A GAC is to be used at attractions. It doesn't have anything to do with restroom access.

There aren't any restrooms other than the ones spread around the park anyway. The only ones I could think of would be ones in some of the restaurants, but I unless one is in the restaurant, those are unlikely to be easier/closer than the other restrooms (if they are, however, I'd have no problem just going in an using them).

 

[lilpooh108]

A GAC is to be used at attractions. It doesn't have anything to do with restroom access.

With Chrohn's, the OP may not be able to stand in line for long periods of time in case she needs fast access to a bathroom. I'm sure she's not asking for a pass to go to the bathroom.

 

[crashbb]

With Chrohn's, the OP may not be able to stand in line for long periods of time in case she needs fast access to a bathroom. I'm sure she's not asking for a pass to go to the bathroom.

Actually, that is exactly what she asked for in the OP...

Could I possibly gain access to bathrooms that aren't so spread out around the park?

 

[angelike1125]

I'm wondering if I could gain access to 'off-stage' CM restrooms in an emergency. Especially if the long wait has me literally squirming and fearful that I could soil a ride which would negatively impact other park goers.

 

[lost*in*cyberspace]

I'm wondering if I could gain access to 'off-stage' CM restrooms in an emergency. Especially if the long wait has me literally squirming and fearful that I could soil a ride which would negatively impact other park goers.

Doubtful. Do these even exist? What about adult diapers?

 

[Joanna71985]

I'm wondering if I could gain access to 'off-stage' CM restrooms in an emergency. Especially if the long wait has me literally squirming and fearful that I could soil a ride which would negatively impact other park goers.

No. Guests are not allowed backstage (except while on the backstage tours, or with a VIP guide). Unfortunately this would not be allowed

 

[angelike1125]

Ok. Just didn't know if a GAC card would be helpful for me. Seems it wouldn't do much for me. Thanks.

 

[Starclassic]

I don't think a GAC would be helpful, but if you don't already have a "can't wait" card and live in the US, you should order one from this site (they're free): http://www.myibd.org/

I haven't had to use mine at Disney so I'm not sure how helpful it is there, but these cards are great to keep with you anyway, just in case. I have mine with me wherever I go.

I hope you have a great (and flare free!) vacation.

 

[buffettgirl]

I don't think a GAC would be helpful, but if you don't already have a "can't wait" card and live in the US, you should order one from this site (they're free): http://www.myibd.org/

I haven't had to use mine at Disney so I'm not sure how helpful it is there, but these cards are great to keep with you anyway, just in case. I have mine with me wherever I go.

I hope you have a great (and flare free!) vacation.

Unfortunately no one has to accept that card. It's just a piece of paper. I wouldn't hold my breath (or anything else) expecting that you'll be given access to any off limits bathroom just by handing over that card. Sorry.

I've had Crohn's for the past 10 years and have travelled to Disney about a dozen times (maybe more as a DVC member) during that time frame.

Lately it's been worse. Way worse with bathroom urgency issues. Would this condition be covered? Could I possibly gain access to bathrooms that aren't so spread out around the park?

I'd really like to get through our upcoming trip in September without any embarrassing grown-up accidents...

GACs are not given based on conditions. They are given based on needs. A person with the same condition may not need the same accommodation, so you must go to Guest Services and explain your needs, not your disease. Unfortunately the accommodations you're asking for, extra bathroom access, just doesn't exist.

 

[Jonell]

There are many many restroom in the parks and there is usually one nearby with many stalls. I would also suggest visiting during the slower months. We usually visit in Sept and Feb (avoid President's week) and I've never waited in line for the restroom.

 

[Zuzer]

I don't think it would hurt to visit guest services to ask about your concerns. I had a good experience at Hollywood Studios with no GAC. I have colitis and on one trip we were about to board the Tower of Terror when I got an attack. I mentioned to the cast member that there was no way I'd make it on the ride. He told me and my family to go to the bathroom and come to the back entrance(exit) when I felt ok. We explained what happened to the cast members there and were let in with no problem.

Good luck!

 

[Schmeck]

Definitely get a park map when you enter the park, and note where each bathroom is. Before getting into a queue, look at the map and note where the nearest bathroom is - and what it is next to, as some are tucked in/hidden with amazing theming.

Plan your day carefully. I know I have a certain block of time when I cannot eat anything besides tea and bland, dry stuff. Then if I am OK after an hour, I can be out and about. Mine is not Chrohn's, it's more a lack of gall bladder/fat/dairy issue.

 

[Starclassic]

Unfortunately no one has to accept that card. It's just a piece of paper. I wouldn't hold my breath (or anything else) expecting that you'll be given access to any off limits bathroom just by handing over that card. Sorry.

It's actually not "just a piece of paper". And I'm not sure who you are referring to as "no one", but depending on where you're trying to use it, sometimes that card MUST be accepted. But that's as far as I'm going with this on here, because I'm pretty sure the turn this will take is against the rules of the boards.

 

[Gracie09]

It's actually not "just a piece of paper". And I'm not sure who you are referring to as "no one", but depending on where you're trying to use it, sometimes that card MUST be accepted. But that's as far as I'm going with this on here, because I'm pretty sure the turn this will take is against the rules of the boards.

Only currently only 13 states require access to non public bathrooms for people with medical conditions. None require that card and florida is not one of them. So although its a great idea it is not a practical solution for the op. Especially since it is based on an assumption that there are nonpublic bathrooms that would be closer for her to use. Also nothing says people already in line have to give way to whomever is holding the card. Would I if someone had an emergency, sure unless my child was doing the pee pee dance because then I would have the same situation on my hands as the op.
My friend with crohns used poise type pads when she is competing in equestrian events. She often doesn't know what the bathroom situation will be like and doesn't want to take a chance.
Good luck op. I'm sure if you make note of all the bathrooms you will find you will never be far from one.

 

[LilyWDW]

Another thing to think about is the length of the rides themselves. Ellen's Energy Adventure is quite long and you can not leave once it starts. Well, you could, but the whole ride would stop and they would have to evac everyone on it and then reset the whole thing.

I'm not sure what a GAC would do. Waits would be the same no matter what. If you had to leave the line there is no GAC that lets you back in at your original spot. A CM doesn't have to allow it either, though you could try explaining it to them. On top of that there is nothing that will help with a line AT the bathroom besides hoping for everyone to be nice and understanding.

Know where the bathrooms are and plan ahead. I have health issues to that can require a sudden bathroom need so I GET the anxiety. I always know where the bathrooms are ahead of time. However, I prepare myself that if I have to leave the line then I will have to start over.

 

[buffettgirl]

Only currently only 13 states require access to non public bathrooms for people with medical conditions. None require that card and florida is not one of them. So although its a great idea it is not a practical solution for the op. Especially since it is based on an assumption that there are nonpublic bathrooms that would be closer for her to use. Also nothing says people already in line have to give way to whomever is holding the card. Would I if someone had an emergency, sure unless my child was doing the pee pee dance because then I would have the same situation on my hands as the op.
My friend with crohns used poise type pads when she is competing in equestrian events. She often doesn't know what the bathroom situation will be like and doesn't want to take a chance.
Good luck op. I'm sure if you make note of all the bathrooms you will find you will never be far from one.

Thank you.