Should I ask for a GAC?

[LoveDisneyMom]

Hi there,

I would really appreciate feedback on this issue. I dont want to abuse the system.

My son who is 2 and a half has a condition called MCAD. It is a rare metabolic disorder that makes it so he can only use glucose for energy because he cant metabolize fats. If he has run out of glucose, his body quickly will go into a coma and he can die. So this means he can not fast, (has to eat regularly) and if he is sick he has to eat every 3 hours day and night. If he doesnt eat he has to be hospitalized and get an IV with special glucose until he is able to eat. We actually just got out of the hospital after 6 days of being there because he had a virus.

I have never taken him on a trip before and so Im a little nervous. I know that other moms of MCAD kids say that in situations like Disneyland- heat/using lots of energy/schedule disrupted- it can cause issues and they have gotten GAC where they avoid line ups.

We will be bringing his stroller and taking breaks in the day to go have a nap and make sure he is well fed.

Thanks for any help

 

[Cheshire Figment]

Hi and to disABILITIES!

If you click on where it says "disABILTIES" at the top of this page it will take you to the Index. One of the top items is the "disABILTIES FAQ" which will gives lots of useful information, including in Post #6 concerning the Guest Assistance Card (GAC) and browse through Post #3 concerning other specialized needs.

Or, if you want an easier route to the FAQs, click on the link in my signature.

 

[Piper]

I would suggest really researching before you plan a trip.

1. Knowing your son's limitations, I would go at a cooler and less crowded time of the year.
2. I would be sure to have some high glucose snacks with me that he enjoys. There will be no problem with your giving them to him when he needs them.
3. Unfortunately, a GAC isn't meant to shorten wait times. There are NO front of the line privileges. Most lines are mainstreamed and everyone goes through the same line unless you have a fastpass (and those are available to everyone.)
4. Use fastpass!
5. The one thing a GAC may be helpful is to allow you to use your stroller as a WC. Then you can take it in line with you to conserve your son's energy.
6. Read the FAQs at the top of this thread. It may cover some things which you need to know (but being your first trip haven't thought of.)

Many times, people who wait in the HC lines wait much longer than those going through the standard lines. People see you going through the line to a certain point and then being diverted to a different area and think you are getting on before them. Actually, this way may cause you to have to wait longer. (I speak from personal experience!)

 

[MG3G]

I think you should get a GAC for sure!
Stroller as a Wheelchair would probably really help in your situation.
Our son had a condition which was not anything like yours BUT did result in him becoming very tired and needing to eat at regular intervals. Having a stroller for him at all times was GREAT. Our trip would not have been possible without being able to take it with us - he just couldn't stand that long. We hung a little back pack full of food and medication off the back and had access to everything we needed at all times. Our son would also get so tired that he would need to sleep - right then and there. Instead of him being miserable while we tried to get back to the hotel we just brought a heavy blanket and draped it over the stroller for a black out shade - he was able to curl up and sleep while everyone else still enjoyed our trip. He also rested in the first aid stations which have amazing staff. We had an amazing trip with VERY few issues because the Disney cast members are awsome and did a great job helping us figure out the best plans.

Actually I should mention that on one ride where the HC line was super long the cast member and I came up with a plan for me to carry him through the regular line which was shorter. He was 6 at the time - so BIG enough that I wouldn't want to normally carry him but small enough that I could manage for one short line. They REALLY helped us problem solve the best way to do things!