Just wanted to share our good news...

[kackie]

Just wanted to share why we have planned our trip to Disney this January. Our DS was diagnosed with a solid mass/tumor on the adrenal gland in October, he immediately had surgery for removal. Physicians felt this was most likely a cancerous tumor. Upon examination, it was a benign nerve cell tumor that had likely been cancerous at birth and had spontaneously regressed on its own. (That is our Christmas miracle)

Needless to say, our DS has been brave and courageous in overcoming this major surgery. THe tumor removed was the size of a baseball. He is doing well.

Any tips on taking a "well" child who has just had major surgery to the parks. He is 7.

Thanks, I just wanted to share our reason for Disney celebration trip.

Kackie

 

[Wheelsie]

I'd suggest wheelchair rental and GAC depending on the little one's tiredness level after surgery!!


CONGRATS on your happy news!!!

 

[mamajoan]

WOW! Thank you for sharing that absolutely wonderful story. It is sooo nice to hear when something goes right!

 

[SueOKW]

Cool! I'd say he certainly deserves a guest of honor badge and maybe a little package waiting for him a the resort when you arrive! Hey experts, are those pixie people still out there?

Thanks for sharing such grand news!
Sue

 

[SueM in MN]

Wow. That is great news (and just in time for Christmas).
I would probably consider renting a stroller for him. According to Safari Steve, a CM at MK, they do have strollers that fit up to a small 12 year old. You could also rent a wheelchair, but an adult size one would be too large for him to be rally comfy. You can rent strollers and child size wheelchairs from a place called
All About Kids.

I expect that he would still be tiring easier and faster than normal (although kids in general recuperate from surgery faster than adults do). He also is not likely to tell you he's tired until he's ready to drop (excitement and general just being a kid). You should probably ask his doctors if any types of rides may be off limits to him for this trip. They may not want him spinning around or being bounced around on some of the roller coaster or simulator rides so soon after major surgery.
Here's a link to a thread about Gifts of a Lifetime. That's the company for the famous Jane and her pixies.
Have a great time.

 

[mhopset]

that is GREAT news!!!!!! You deserve the best, God is truly good. God Bless and have a great time!!!!!!!

 

[s&k'smom]

Yeah, what wonderful news! Thanks for sharing.

 

[Safari Steve]

If your doctor has recommended that he stay off of his feet as much as possible, I would advise you to rent a stroller (yes, they are large) and see Guest Relations about a GAC that will allow you to use a stroller as a wheelchair. This is helpful because strollers are not allowed indoors, while wheelchairs are. In any event, I would share your story with a CM at Guest Relations just to let them know. How wonderful!

-Steve

 

[kackie]

Thanks for the information. He is really doing well, and is anxious to go. We plan to take it at his pace. He doesn't like the "hard" rides, so it will work out well for us.


What is the guest of honor badge stuff?

I don't understand the GAC, would it be appropriate for him to have one. It would help with becoming over tired, but I don't want to take advantage. How do you pursue getting one, do you need a dr. excuse. My doctor today told me he would write up anything I need. any help appreciated.

I feel very unknowledgable about everything. sorry.
kackie

 

[SueM in MN]

First answer: Guest of Honor badges are basically name tags that you can get at WDW. The CMs notice them and give a little extra attention. It's kind of neat for a child to have the CMs talk to them by name. Here's a link to a thread about Guest of Honor badges. Some people have feelings against having their child wear anything with their name on it, but the majority of people think it's OK since you will be with the child.
You can go to Guest Services in any of the parks to request a Guest Assistance Card. It's basically a way for people with temporary or permanent disabilities to get what they need to enjoy the parks without totally wearing themselves out. Sometimes what you need is a spot to wait out of the sun, sometimes being able to use a stroller as a wheelchair (have it able to go in lines where strollers are not usually allowed) helps a lot. You don't need a doctor's letter or anything. All you need is to be able to explain what your needs are. In your case, you would just explain that your son just had major surgery and the doctor wanted him to be off his feet as much as possible.
CLICK HERE for a link to FAQs from the disABILITIES BOARD. These were compiled by teri and there is a section about GACs that should help you understand them better.
AND, just keep the questions coming.