My Disability Experience WDW

[layznkrayz]

My wife and I were at WDW 12-2 to 12-7 and just wanted to tell about my 1st disability trip there.

Coming from Minnesota I took Delta, and they went way out of there way to make sure all of my need were taken care of, from wheeling me onto the plane, and making sure that there was someone there for me at the other end who took us all the way to the Disney Cruise bus making sure that I had the front seat and helped me up onto the bus. And the driver was as good helping me off (and I'm 6'4"/420 lbs.)

I had rented a scooter from "BEST PRICE MOBILITY" which they had at the resort there waiting for me. And at a very affordable price ($214 after tax for the 5 days). I had no issues with it at all, and felt confident that if I did have any issues that they would take care of it.

WDW's bathrooms are somewhat large enough, and I tried to find "Companion" bathrooms, so that way I knew that I wouldn't be waiting for someone that was not disabled tying up the disabled one. That's one thing that really gets my goat..... I could rant more.

I'm 56 and my first trip was Christmas 2002, and I swore that I would never go back. I have neuropathy and have no feelings in my feet and legs. Also 5 years ago I was diagnosed with Male Breast Cancer, and on my birthday (4/25) found out that it came back in several other places. We took the trip not knowing if I'll be able to in the future.

After the fantastic time we had, and the service I personally received, I'm planning the next one hoping that in a few years I'll have my cancer under control and can go back. My wife's a big Disney freak, and I've put up with her buying and decorating our condo, etc.... I told her that she has to make room for the new things I'll be buying. I already have my little corner where my computer is with things that I've bought on this trip, and have ordered from eBay a new Ipad, Ipod cases with Mickey of course.

All of the pain and depression I had disappeared with a 5 day trip, and a Mouse.

 

[lanejudy]

I'm so glad you had a terrific vacation! Thank you for sharing your experiences. Best of luck with your future treatments.

 

[Aladora]

My wife and I were at WDW 12-2 to 12-7 and just wanted to tell about my 1st disability trip there.

Coming from Minnesota I took Delta, and they went way out of there way to make sure all of my need were taken care of, from wheeling me onto the plane, and making sure that there was someone there for me at the other end who took us all the way to the Disney Cruise bus making sure that I had the front seat and helped me up onto the bus. And the driver was as good helping me off (and I'm 6'4"/420 lbs.)

I had rented a scooter from "BEST PRICE MOBILITY" which they had at the resort there waiting for me. And at a very affordable price ($214 after tax for the 5 days). I had no issues with it at all, and felt confident that if I did have any issues that they would take care of it.

WDW's bathrooms are somewhat large enough, and I tried to find "Companion" bathrooms, so that way I knew that I wouldn't be waiting for someone that was not disabled tying up the disabled one. That's one thing that really gets my goat..... I could rant more.

I'm 56 and my first trip was Christmas 2002, and I swore that I would never go back. I have neuropathy and have no feelings in my feet and legs. Also 5 years ago I was diagnosed with Male Breast Cancer, and on my birthday (4/25) found out that it came back in several other places. We took the trip not knowing if I'll be able to in the future.

After the fantastic time we had, and the service I personally received, I'm planning the next one hoping that in a few years I'll have my cancer under control and can go back. My wife's a big Disney freak, and I've put up with her buying and decorating our condo, etc.... I told her that she has to make room for the new things I'll be buying. I already have my little corner where my computer is with things that I've bought on this trip, and have ordered from eBay a new Ipad, Ipod cases with Mickey of course.

All of the pain and depression I had disappeared with a 5 day trip, and a Mouse.

I am so glad you had such a great trip!

As someone who has battled breast cancer and also as someone who had a male relative battle it as well, I am really sorry to read about what you are going through. I wish you all the best and hope that you are able to go back to your happy place very soon!

 

[layznkrayz]

Thanks. I look at life several ways ~

#1- It takes the 3 F's ~ Faith, Family & Friends. And I have the best.

#2- No matter how hard you have it, there's always someone that's worse off then you are.

I'm blessed every day when I wake up next to the most wonderful woman in the world. I'm lucky to have her also as my wife.

 

[Shel]

WDW's bathrooms are somewhat large enough, and I tried to find "Companion" bathrooms, so that way I knew that I wouldn't be waiting for someone that was not disabled tying up the disabled one. That's one thing that really gets my goat..... I could rant more.

I just returned from a trip to DW 12/12-18, and used a wheelchair full time. My sweet DH pushed me around all day! If a companion bathroom wasn't available I used the crutches I had with me. Unfortunately there were many instances that a non-disabled person was using the companion bathrooms either as a baby changing location, or because the regular line was too long. Yes, we were told that by a lady exiting the companion bathroom alone - that she didn't want to wait in the other line. We also saw parents use them with same sex children. I had an issue with that as well. Fathers taking younger daughters in, and mothers taking younger sons in there was acceptable. Some times I think people don't stop and consider that the companion bathrooms are there for a specific purpose, and not to just duck into to avoid the crowds.

Glad you had a great trip, and I wish you good health so you can go back!

 

[OurBigTrip]

I just returned from a trip to DW 12/12-18, and used a wheelchair full time. My sweet DH pushed me around all day! If a companion bathroom wasn't available I used the crutches I had with me. Unfortunately there were many instances that a non-disabled person was using the companion bathrooms either as a baby changing location, or because the regular line was too long. Yes, we were told that by a lady exiting the companion bathroom alone - that she didn't want to wait in the other line. We also saw parents use them with same sex children. I had an issue with that as well. Fathers taking younger daughters in, and mothers taking younger sons in there was acceptable. Some times I think people don't stop and consider that the companion bathrooms are there for a specific purpose, and not to just duck into to avoid the crowds.

Glad you had a great trip, and I wish you good health so you can go back!

I imagine it is frustrating when you need to use a handicapped stall or a companion restroom, but at the same time, those locations are not, nor are they meant to be, reserved for use only by the disabled.

When I'm in line for a stall and the next stall that opens is a handicapped stall, I always check behind me to see if there is anyone in a wheelchair or scooter waiting, but if not, I use the stall. Even that's not required, but it's a nice thing to do.

 

[aaarcher86]

I imagine it is frustrating when you need to use a handicapped stall or a companion restroom, but at the same time, those locations are not, nor are they meant to be, reserved for use only by the disabled. When I'm in line for a stall and the next stall that opens is a handicapped stall, I always check behind me to see if there is anyone in a wheelchair or scooter waiting, but if not, I use the stall. Even that's not required, but it's a nice thing to do.

Totally agree. That's like saying I can't walk up a wheelchair ramp because it's only for wheelchairs. It's handicap accessible, not handicap exclusive.

Along with this, if I walked out with my same sex daughter, no one would know from just looking at her that she's special needs.

Sometimes the people that complain about being judged need to realize they're judging others themselves.

 

[Gracie09]

I imagine it is frustrating when you need to use a handicapped stall or a companion restroom, but at the same time, those locations are not, nor are they meant to be, reserved for use only by the disabled.

When I'm in line for a stall and the next stall that opens is a handicapped stall, I always check behind me to see if there is anyone in a wheelchair or scooter waiting, but if not, I use the stall. Even that's not required, but it's a nice thing to do.

I agree with this. Also you don't know by looking at someone if they are disabled or otherwise need the handicap or companion bathroom. The children they were with could have needed a quieter place or themselves had a need for the facilities. They could have a cath or need the grab bars or any number of non-obvious reasons they could need the extra room or amenities of the handicap or companion bathroom.

 

[bidnow5]

I have more issues now so I do look disabled but a few years ago you would not have known and I have to use the handicapped restrooms so I have had quite a few people make comments on my way out no one should judge others

 

[zela02]

We also saw parents use them with same sex children. I had an issue with that as well. !

My daughter is 11 with autism, along with a few other physical challenges. Upon a quick glance, the average person may not realize how significant those challenges are. She cannot toilet independently, or take care of other feminine hygiene needs, without assistant. A regular stall is not large enough for both of us. Our choice is a handicapped accessible stall, which draws criticism from one group, or the companion restroom, that draws criticism from those who don't/can't immediately recognize her needs.

Please don't assume those people you saw didn't have a true need to use those facilities.

 

[OurBigTrip]

My daughter is 11 with autism, along with a few other physical challenges. Upon a quick glance, the average person may not realize how significant those challenges are. She cannot toilet independently, or take care of other feminine hygiene needs, without assistant. A regular stall is not large enough for both of us. Our choice is a handicapped accessible stall, which draws criticism from one group, or the companion restroom, that draws criticism from those who don't/can't immediately recognize her needs.

Please don't assume those people you saw didn't have a true need to use those facilities.

Well said. I would only add that per your last sentence, there is no requirement that there be a "need" in order to use the handicapped stall or companion restrooms. They are open to any and all that choose to use them.

 

[MaryLovesPoohBear]

Totally agree. That's like saying I can't walk up a wheelchair ramp because it's only for wheelchairs. It's handicap accessible, not handicap exclusive.

Along with this, if I walked out with my same sex daughter, no one would know from just looking at her that she's special needs.

Sometimes the people that complain about being judged need to realize they're judging others themselves.

Yep.

You would have no idea whether or not I needed the raised seat or the hand rails. Heck, I wouldn't know, until the day dawns, if I will have the need.

To say nothing of the fact that I don't have to have a need to use that particular stall.

 

[FrostMommy]

I have to agree with what some of the other posters have stated. I have never thought, or heard, that the disabled or companion bathrooms are solely for use by disabled folks. If a disabled person was in line and noticeably waiting, I would never take it, but if there isn't, I do not see why not.

I am not sure that I have noticed companion bathrooms before, but I have seen separate bathrooms that are a room all to themselves. Every time I have noticed these, they have been labeled "Family Restroom", seeming to be there for disabled persons, but also for those with younger children. Are "companion bathrooms" something special to Disney?

 

[sharadoc]

I need a handicapped stall due to severe arthritis. I need the railings, so I can use the smaller stalls that are equipped with railings, and I am grateful that Disney has more of those.

Unfortunately, every discussion always leads to "invisible disabilities" or "not exclusive" when this topic comes up. It's not necessary. We all know that those stalls are not exclusive.

But, we can't use every stall in the bathroom, so the opposite of the argument doesn't work for us. So when we have to stand for a long time, and get in more pain while doing so, we get frustrated at folks who use the handicapped stalls when we know they don't need them. Like little kids who think it's fun to go in there and play in the sink. Or someone who is changing their clothes. We don't feel that way about EVERYONE who comes out - we get it.

But it's okay to feel frustration and vent it here. That's okay. It's much nicer when we can lean on each other and help each other, rather than start scolding every time someone comes on here to just vent a little.

We're all in this together!!!

 

[gratefulfred]

I'm a father with a 4 year old daughter and I would use the companion bathrooms before ever considering taking her into a public men's room

 

[SueM in MN]

I have to agree with what some of the other posters have stated. I have never thought, or heard, that the disabled or companion bathrooms are solely for use by disabled folks. If a disabled person was in line and noticeably waiting, I would never take it, but if there isn't, I do not see why not.

I am not sure that I have noticed companion bathrooms before, but I have seen separate bathrooms that are a room all to themselves. Every time I have noticed these, they have been labeled "Family Restroom", seeming to be there for disabled persons, but also for those with younger children. Are "companion bathrooms" something special to Disney?

the ones labeled 'Family Restroom' in malls and other places are often set yup with features, like a child size toilet and changing tables that make them especially nice for families.
The ones at WDW are labeled Companion Restroom and don't have any of those 'family friendly' features.
I usually post something similar to the following quote when the question of Companion Restrooms comes up.

These are large enough for a wheelchair to go into and are set up for people who need assistance in the bathroom (whether or not they have a wheelchair).

• meet ADA wheelchair accessibility standards for size, space and arrangement of the room.
• raised seat, wheelchair accessible toilets with grab bars
• sink
• a single room with a door that can be locked, so there is no privacy from the other people who are in there with you.
• almost all have autoflush toilets
• some have a urinal
• some have changing tables; measurements vary and are listed below with the information for each park

A few examples of people who need Companion Restrooms:

• a mother with an older son who is autistic and is too old to comfortably come into the ladies room with her
• someone who can't walk whose wheelchair doesn't fit into the regular handicapped stalls or doesn't fit into the stall in a way that allows them to transfer (so they can't leave it outside the stall and walk in)
• someone, like my DD, who needs room for a wheelchair and a helper (we don't fit in many of the regular handicapped stalls)
• someone, like my DD, who don't do well with all the noise in a regular restroom and need a quieter restroom.
• an older man or woman who has to assist their spouse/SO who has had a stroke or other situation that makes assistance in the restroom necessary
• someone with a colostomy or other need that makes being in a bathroom with a toilet and a sink necessary
• and, many other needs that can't all be listed.

The Companion Restroom or handicapped stall are the only toilets some people can use. So, there may be only 4-8 toilets in all of that park that they can use.
Handicapped stalls and Companion Restrooms are made so that people with disabilities are able to use the restroom. They may also be useful or convenient for some people without disabilities. Some people do choose to use them for convenience. But, there are not enough of them to be used that way if everyone who found them convenient used them.
I would like to ask people to consider whether or not they have other options. In some cases, they don't and should be using the Companion Restrooms or the Handicapped Stall. (One example might be a father traveling alone with a young daughter who doesn't feel comfortable bringing her in with him.)
But, please consider whether there are other options before using them for convenience.

The issue we have had is that we need to use the Companion Restrooms or a handicapped stall with a sink when I take my daughter to the bathroom.
I've personally been yelled at by people for using the 'family restroom' at WDW because some families see them as strictly for family with small children use.
It has gotten so bad, especially at the Studio, that on some trips we ONLY used the restroom in First Aid. The First Aid staff at all parks have told me that they have heard people with disabilities are often being harassed by families and feel uncomfortable using the Companion Restrooms.

People need to be more patient and stop fighting about bathrooms.

 

[ttintagel]

Yeah, I've gotten yelled at, coming out of the handicapped-accessible stall in the ladies' room on crutches, "because there are people with children waiting!"

Unfortunately, attitudes are something you can't control. "Use the stall/bathroom you need to use, and don't hog it for longer than you really need it" should, of course, be everybody's rule of thumb. And I prefer to assume that everyone I see using a companion restroom or accessible stall really does need it, unless I hear them specifically state otherwise.

I have friends around whom I have to bite my tongue, because they tell me they always take the handicapped stall because they "just like to spread out." OK, maybe there's no law against it, but it's morally reprehensible, especially when they know how much trouble I have getting up and down with my bad hip. Other friends insist on taking all three daughters into the stall with them, even though they all go by themselves in school and when they're out at the mall, etc. with their little friends.

I do have hopes for WDW, though, because it's the one place where women have stepped aside and allowed me to go ahead into the handicapped stalls on crutches on in a wheelchair when they were headed in there with three or four children and strollers in tow. (Mind you, they weren't always ahead of me in line, but a LOT of parents headed for the bathroom don't let that stop them.)

 

[FairestOfThemAll37]

I have friends around whom I have to bite my tongue, because they tell me they always take the handicapped stall because they "just like to spread out." OK, maybe there's no law against it, but it's morally reprehensible

Common courtesy should remain intact and unfortunately many folks are lacking in it these days.

I, however, think that saying it's morally reprehensible to use a handicapped stall without "need" is a bit much. I really don't see anything wrong with it. Some public restrooms can be very tight and some people may prefer the extra space for a variety of reasons.

If there's somebody waiting who needs that stall then let them go ahead, if somebody else uses it and somebody who does need it comes by, then I imagine it would be free soon. But that's just IMHO.

There are places I frequent that I will wait for the handicapped stall because the stalls are small and I feel trapped with the door opening in.

I guess I'm a pretty horrible person in some people's eyes for that.

 

[bidnow5]

I never get upset because someone is in the handicapped stall I don't know them and they may have a reason. Once in Epcot I went into a restroom all the stalls were in use several people left right away I was waiting for the handicapped stall another guy walked in as the one in the handicapped stall was coming out he started screaming at him for using the handicapped when others were open I tried to explain but the guy was just so mad

 

[ttintagel]

There are places I frequent that I will wait for the handicapped stall because the stalls are small and I feel trapped with the door opening in.

I guess I'm a pretty horrible person in some people's eyes for that.

Sounds to me like you DO need it, because of claustrophobia.