Ileostomy at Disney World.

[NDMOM]

Have had an ileostomy since June -required 4 major surgeries and I'm now on a small bowel transplant list. Anything I eat or drink goes through me very fast - and even if I don't eat or drink, your body naturally produces about 11 leters of fluid a day, so my ostomy bag fills up quickly. I need to go empty my appliance at least every 1/2 hour all day if I eat or drink even a little, and can maybe go an hour if I have nothing - no food or liquid.
I don't know if this is something I want to try to even explain to a CM, or if my condition is eligible for a DAC. I know I can't stand in a line 30 minutes without having to go to a bathroom - and I'm SURE Disney doesn't want an ileostomy explosion in the park.
Is this something I should bring up at guest relations?

 

[aaarcher86]

I would request a DAS. But you will need to explain why you can't be on a traditional line environment.

You could write down what you said here so they can read it if your uncomfortable explaining in person.

 

[SirDuff]

I with the PP.

However, I'd also suggest being really careful about some of the rides. Ellen's Energy Adventure (or whatever the actual name is) is over 30 minutes just for the ride. By the time you add in wait time (even with the DAS and/or FP+, there will be some wait time), a couple of other rides will come close to 30 minutes as well.

Do you have a plan for possible ride break downs?

 

[SueM in MN]

The Guide for Guests with Cognitive Disabilities has the length of all the attractions. As was mentioned, some are longer and will be well over 30 minutes from entering the line to the attraction being finished.

If you haven't read the DAS FAQs thread near the top of the board, it would be helpful to read it.

For shows, you would be able to leave before the end if you need to. For rides, once you are on, you can't get off.

Things you need to consider:
- with DAS, you will be given a Return Time that is roughly equal to the time listed for the Standby Line (minus 10 minutes) when you request a Return Time.
During that time, you can do what you want - go to the bathroom, wait somewhere, etc.
you can't get into the attraction before that time, but you can go anytime after; it doesn't have an end time like Fastpass does.

- when you return to use your DAS time, you will enter the Fastpass line. The wait there recently has been less than 15 minutes, but that is the 'goal' wait time and it could be longer.

- For shows, you will usually be given a timeframe, with a beginning and end, for a specific show. The beginning of the 'window ' is usually about 20 minutes before the show and the end of the window is about 10 minutes before the show time. If you get there after the window ends, you may not get in because it is at capacity.

- if there is a ride breakdown, you could easily be on a short ride like Pirates for a much longer time than anticipated. I have personally been on Pirates for close to 30 minutes because of a breakdown. Considering the walking in and out time, that ride took nearly an hour.

- bathroom waits can sometimes be long, especially after a long ride or a show lets out. In those cases, waiting lines can be out the door. It vsn be even longer if you need a specific stall (like the handicapped stall) or you need to wait for the Compsnion Restroom

- buses come about every 20 minutes and most routes are 15 minutes or longer. You need to plan at least 45 minutes for each bus trip

- Driving is going to be a fairly similar time to buses. Count on extra time if you are leaving the park at closing or after a parade, either traveling with bus or car.

- once you get to the park, you need to go thru bag check, which can be fast if there is no line, or a 5-10 minute time period.
MK and Epcot have a restroom after going thru bag check, but before entering the park. Epcot also has one before bag check on the pathway to the buses.

 

[emldrl]

Have you tried different appliances, like one with a tube and bag, similar to a catheter setup? If your doc can figure something out for you, it would certainly make your trip easier, and probably a lot less stressful. I was a nurse before my own disability took over, so I've seen some unconventional things done for certain situations. (they also make bags that can be hidden under clothing) Just thought this might help. Good luck and have a great vacation!

 

[appleorchard]

My dad had an ileostomy and very little small intestine left. Knowing what he went through, you definitely should be eligible for the DAS. People have no idea how difficult it is; most people we knew confused it with a colonostomy, which is much more controllable.

Good luck!

 

[lanejudy]

Just to point out that the DAS is not based on diagnosis or procedure or condition -- it is "needs" based. If it may be easily confused, all the more reason to be prepared to clearly explain your NEEDS as related to waiting in line.

Other posters have pointed out that it would be beneficial to plan ahead and look into length of rides. Some rides or attractions may last much longer than the line, so can the simple act of getting from your resort room to the park where you could access a restroom. You'll want to be aware of those situations to help you plan to avoid an embarrassing issue.

Enjoy your vacation!

 

[mindy327]

I PM'ed you a message... Lots of info

 

[Jonell]

OP, my DH has the same issues as you. He's had his ostomy for 10 years now and we have been visiting WDW with a DAC without any problems. He's never had a problem getting the card after explaining his needs. It is almost impossible to squeeze through a crowded line with a full pouch dangerous too...lol. I would also suggest taking along an extra appliance and a change of clothes. You never know how the humidity will affect the appliance adhesive. Oh... and also an extra clamp, my DH discover this after dropping his in the toilet at the park last trip. Needless to say he had to "fish" it out!!!