medical issues and dining...help!

[mom2smjn]

I have a problem...my mom and dad are traveling with us this trip(1st time for them!) and I want it to be special. They want to do lots of Character meals and experience many of the awesome themed restaurants....my problem is my mom has gastro pareisis(paralyzed stomach) and cannot eat most foods. When we go out to eat at home she will usually get just a side of mashed potatoes, applesause, milkshake or the like. It is a horrible illness. Many people actually starve to death from it. She had a new experimental surgery which is letting her eat soft foods-previously she could only have liquids! But now she is concerned that she will not be allowed to join us for these buffets if she is not eating OR that she will be paying $$$$ to sit there with some applesauce. I do not want to cause her embarrasment or make her feel weird...I was wondering if there is a way to arrange something ahead when we make our PS so she does not feel odd.....does anyone know?

Thanks so much

 

[YesDear]

I think if you contact the restaurants before hand and explain your situtation, they will work hard to make your experience pleasurable.

I have even seen chefs come and talk to you and prepare what you need.

Just let them know.

Disney Magic Lives!!!

 

[SueM in MN]

Welcome to disABILITIES.
Here's the phone number for the WDW Executive Chef's Office: (407) 824-5967
They deal with all the menus at WDW (from full service to food carts) and will be able to help with your questions. With 24 hours advance notice, the "sit-down" restaurants can do special orders - like use a blender to make her food a consistency she can eat. Give them ideas of what sorts of things she is able to eat at home and they will try to provide it.
I'd also suggest you take some containers of food she can eat into the park with you. You can buy individually packaged portions of applesauce and pudding. Also some cans of Ensure (a liquid nutritional supplement) or packets of Instant Breakfast (a powder with extra protein, vitamins and minerals that is added to milk). That way, if you can't find anything suitable for her to eat, she will have something that is nutritious.
Here's a website with an explanation of gastroparesis for people who want a little more info on what it is.
Here's some Pixie Dust for a great trip.

 

[dclfun]

I have a feeding tube and join my children for meals....I just don't eat! Last year when I wanted to do the Candlelight Processional dinner package ( yet didn't want to pay for a meal I couldn't eat) I offered to pay the "entertainment charge". I've heard of people doing this for the character meals and dinner shows- pay for the character interaction portion but not the dinner itself. I was offered, for the Candlelight dinner, to have my meal blended, but of course that wasn't what I needed- still, it's hopeful they'll cooperate and help your Mom. ---Kathy