Not sure where to post this?

[PebblesMK]

I am taking my daughter to Disney World in September, from what I hear it's super hot at that time of year. My problem is that I pass out often in heat. Regardless of how much water I drink or the cold compress I keep on my neck, I often find myself "waking" up on the ground.

My question is this, although my daughter has experienced this before from me, there have always been adults around. Is there anyway that I can prepare her for it before we go? It's not that I need help because it only lasts a few minutes, but I defitinitely don't want her freaking out. She will be almost 9 so she's able to digest information pretty well. Worst case ?scenario is that she runs off to find some help and then I have to deal with a lost kid. I'm at a loss of how to prepare her for it or if she/I should carry some sort of information just in case it is worse than normal (worse case scenario would be heat stroke)....Maybe I'm just worrying too much. Oh well, I'd appreciate any help.

 

[duffy]

I'd reschedule for a cooler month.

 

[PebblesMK]

I'd reschedule for a cooler month.

Unless Florida opts for 50 degree or cooler days, I'll face the same problems. But I'm already locked into those days due to flight...oh, and child excitement. It's not that big of a deal, I'm not going to die...just wasn't sure how to prepare her for it.

 

[Loritlc3]

I would prepare her and make a plan. If this happens.... she should stay with you hold your hand etc... I am concerned though if you fall and hit your head or something. Can you give her a number to call or a place to get help?
I have never been to WDW before so maybe others would have better advice.

 

[duffy]

Well, you did say September is "super hot", and that you pass out from the heat.

I googled temperatures in Orlando and came up with this:
September
Average high temperature: 89.7
Average low temperature: 72.4

January
Average high temperature: 70.8
Average low temperature: 48.6

Since January isn't "super hot", I'd plan to go then. It's almost 20 degrees cooler. We went in Feb. of 2008, and it was great! We wore light jackets in the morning, and it was warm enough in the afternoons, but never unpleasant.

But if you faint if it gets hotter that 50 degrees, I don't know what else you can do, except wait until she's older, or take another adult. I just would not want to subject my daughter to such a scary scene.

 

[karen624]

Can someone else go with you? Chances are, as soon as you hit the ground, you will be swarmed with good samaritans to help you. I know I would (I am a nurse), especially seeing that you have a child. I would just go over it all with her, what she would do, role play etc. Maybe put a tag on your backpack/bag kind of like a medical alert that explains what happens to you for anyone who comes to your aid to read, for your daughter to show them.

 

[Hootch]

to those dates, plan on a break each day in the middle of the day when it's hottest. The hours are still pretty long. You should be able to get six or seven hours in the parks each day with a lengthy break during the hottest times of the day. We do this for our trips which are generally in June or July.

I would also have a note with you, possibly from your doctor, describing your condition. It will make medical attention, if required, go more smoothly. The first aid stations are clearly marked on the park maps. It would help if your daughter knows where these are.

I would agree with a PP that your daughter should stay with you. There will certainly be people willing to go for help.

 

[katyjeka]

WDW has a lot of indoor attractions, try to enjoy them during the hottest time of the day. I would skip the afternoon parades, and hit Magic Kingom as early as possible, as so many of the rides are outdoor. Try to eat lunch at a Table Service to relax out of the sun, and eat quick meals for breakfast and dinner. A swim in the afternoon is also a great way to cool down. Have a great trip.

 

[magicaldisney11]

IS there any warning (with your body) before you pass out? If so there are a lot of places to go out of the heat of the day or benches with backs on them so you don't hit your head. Maybe practice with her in a busy place before you go like a mall, pretend that you pass out (let her know that you are pretending) and after going over the "rules' see how she does.
You can also check in at each park at the welcome building and let them know what the situation is and see if they have some kind of an alert pager or something that you can carry that she can press if something happens.

 

[PebblesMK]

Thanks for all the helpful information from everybody! We plan on taking it pretty easy with indoor attractions, breaks in the afternoon and lots and lots of water. I think that I will have a card with her and myself with contacts and the situation. There really is no medical condition that causes me to pass out. I'm not worried about her being scared though. She has seen it before and doesn't make a big deal out of it, just makes sure I have water and something on my neck that is cool. I'm just thinking worse case scenario, but yes, I think a little card with information would be great just in case anybody is really concerned and asks her.

Again, thanks everybody!