Size/Weight related question...

[alliedogsmom]

Not sure if this is the right place to post this but I really need some help. My husband and I are going to WDW in September for our 25th anniversary, and we are lucky enough to be staying in the Contemporary on the 14th floor concierge level. But I am scared of going for fear that I will not be able to ride any of the rides because I am a "supersize" gal and that I will embarass both myself and my husband when I can't fit into a ride. I also have limited mobility issues due to the fact that I have Stage 3 lymphedema in both of my lower legs that require multiple layers of compression bandaging on a daily basis. I do have a valid handicapped parking card, and I intend on getting a GAC, but I am very worried about the rides. I have read the All Ears section on rides for larger people, but I am still not convinced that I will be able to go on anything. Can anyone please reassure me that I will fit on to something so this trip is not a total waste? I have been looking forward to this for over a year now, and we have 89 days left to go...I really want this to be a special trip for us...

 

[tungpo1]

Hi alliedogsmom first things first, dont worry everything will be just fine. If you are worried the best thing to do is ask!!!! There are plenty of Disney staff at the entrance to all the rides that will help or you can take a look and make a decision before you go on. I hope this helped with your question a little and have a great time!!!!!!

 

[fla4fun]

The allearsnet website has a whole section devoted to "Disney At Large" which details what type of seats each ride has and the challenges for Pooh size guests. Coming from a whole family of Pooh size guests, we've had very few uncomfortable sitations with Disney rides and never had a ride that we COULDN'T get in (Universal? That's a whole different story!). Considering your leg issues, at MK you might want to reconsider the Tea Cups, as the doors are narrow and there's not a lot of legroom. You might want to reconsider Space Mountain as well. If you have trouble steping down into rides (I don't know how the bandaging you are using would affect this) you might need assistance with getting into some of the boat attractions like Small World, Pirates, Jungle Cruise, etc, although the ride will certainly be roomy enough once you're in it. Disney is very patient about giving you time to get in the ride and get settled if they see you have a problem. One hint we've picked up over the years: If you are getting on any ride with a seat belt, pull the belt all the way out and hold it out while you sit down. Keep holding it out all the way until you get it fastened and then let it settle back. No one in our family has had trouble with seat belts since we tried this trick (nothing worse than a ride taking off before you're strapped in - it happened to Dad on Space Mountain back when it had seat belts, and he rode the whole ride with no restraints at all).

Basically, it all depends on where you carry your weight. If you carry it in the upper back/chest area, then rides with overhead restraints may not be comfortable. If you carry it in your stomach, lap bars may present a problem. If you carry it in your hips/rear, it can be theater seating that may be uncomfortable. Also, as you're going up to board a ride, if you notice the seat is a little narrow, don't be afraid to say you are two parties of one, instead of one party of two. It's OK to have your own seat instead of being squashed up together, and a lot more comfortable. Like I said, we've never had a problem getting on a ride, but some of them were less comfortable than others. I've never seen anyone at Disney try to get on a ride and not fit, although I'm sure it has happened as I've seen some extremely large people there.

Also, have you considered renting a scooter in the parks to assist with your mobility issues? In fact, you may want to check out the disabilities board for off property rental companies, so you can have it with you the whole time. Most people end up walking 5-10 miles PER DAY while at Disney, and it doesn't sound like you're up to that. You'll see a lot of people using the scooters, and it can really make a difference in the quality of your trip. I had a hard time talking my Mom into using one, until we went on a trip to MK, and had to leave after two hours because she couldn't make it any farther. Ever since, we've rented one and at the end of the day, she still has enough energy to enjoy the resort and have dinner in the restaurant instead of having to order room service. One good thing about the scooters is that you can stay on it for most of the theater attractions/shows, so if the regular seats were going to be uncomfortable due to size issues, you won't have to worry about it.

I have found that no matter what my size, there has always been someone larger, and no matter what my (or my family's) mobility issues are, there is always someone who has it worse than we do. The important thing is to relax and just have fun.

 

[Cheshire Figment]

Hi and to both DisBoards and disABILTIES!

If you have a stamina/mobility problem you are probably better off renting an ECV from an off-site vendor. Since you are staying in the Tower, there is easy elevator access to the monorail for both MK and Epcot. And buses for the other parks and DTD are close to the Tower entrance.

You might want to look at the "disABILTIES FAQ" (which is the first thread shown) for more information about ECVs. The outside vndors will ask your height and weight and provide an ECV with the needed capacity. Once you have an ECV, if stamina or mobility is your only problem you will not need a GAC.

Many of the attractions have a ride vehicle shell outside the attraction, so if you are not sure you can test them without having to get in the line. And, as you said, you have seen the "WDW At Large" on Allearsnet; that rreally does give very useful information.

 

[Accentuate+]

You will be fine. There will be LOTS that you can do.
allears was a great place to start. I'm also a supersize girl and I sent you a PM with the rides/shows/attractions I enjoyed. WDW is very accesible and wonderful.

 

[phillybeth]

How large is large? I'm around 250, a size 24ish. DH is around 350. We both fit on all the rides. Some are a tight squeeze, but doable. Most of my weight is in hips/rear, most of his is belly.

 

[alliedogsmom]

You will be fine. There will be LOTS that you can do.
allears was a great place to start. I'm also a supersize girl and I sent you a PM with the rides/shows/attractions I enjoyed. WDW is very accesible and wonderful.

Accentuate+,Thank you so much for your PM-it made me feel SO much better. I tried to PM you back but it said I couldn't because of a low post count.

And thanks to everyone who responded to me about this. I am so looking forward to this special trip with my DH.

 

[TweedleDee]

Hi Laurie,

I am a super size gal with Stage 3 Lympedema too. I recently visited Disney in December/06. I tried to PM you, but unfortunately it looks like I don't have enough posts to PM either. If you have any specific questions that I could answer for you relating to either, please feel free to email me at: ThisTimeIs4M

ee@aol.com

 

[jklms]

What happens if you just can't fit? Besides being very embarassed, what will they do - stop the ride while you try to squeeze in? I often find I get in the ride, but have a terrible time getting back out. After reading allears and other posts, I think I can fit on everything, but I would sure rather not go than have to be sent away because of the fat!

 

[Accentuate+]

Do your research beforehand (sounds like you have). You'll have a pretty good idea from the research and checking out the ride cars as they approach and you see them in line. People often duck out of line for any number of reasons (scared, kid scared, kid has to go to the bathroom) so they usually have a way to get you out. I did this on Rock N Rollercoaster. Was in line observing the ride vehicles and just had a bad feeling about fitting so I took the "chicken exit". No big deal at all.
I did a lot of research beforehand and didn't even try anything I thought might be questionable but if the worst happens...the CMs are trained to be professional. The worst I've had is a CM had to assist me with a seatbelt on Soarin (two different occasions). The CMs were very professional and matter of fact about the whole thing and I'm sure they would be if you needed to exit the ride.
Don't make a big deal out of it, the CMs won't make a big deal out of it and the general public will be so much in Disney awe they probably won't notice. If they notice they probably won't say anything, most people have better manners than that. If they're rude enough to say something, who cares what a person like that thinks, anyway, and you'll probably never see them again in your whole life.

Go and have fun. Everything will be fine.

 

[faindrops27]

There are alot of supersize people. I will say for me splash is kind of a tight squeeze but because of my height. My knees hit the back of the seat. But if you are short you should fit no problem. Just sit alone. Not beside your hubby. Stay away from the teacups! Disney rides are very accomodating. Universal is not so much. I would say you should have no problem at all. Also the Cm's are pretty much excellent, they basically size you up. For instance, usually Pirates of the Carribean. Supposedly 5 people can fit to the row. But, if they see you need more room, they will just put you, and your hubby to a row. Don't be nervous go and enjoy!! I am really trying to figure out what else could be a squeeze, but I dont think many things are!! Happy 25th Anniversary!!

 

[Snowysmom]

I am a pooh size person myself and did not have any problems when I was recently at WDW. I carry my weight in my hips, rear, and thighs. If you have any questions, just ask a CM. My DH asked a CM at Soarin if he would have any trouble and she told him larger people than him fit on it. He had no trouble at all. I sometimes have trouble getting out of rides because I have a bad knee due to injuries and surgery. Usually the CM's are very patient and understanding. Just go and have a good time. No one is watching, everyone is just enjoying themselves.

 

[Talking Hands]

Beware of the back seats in the Pooh ride at MK. They can be difficult to get in and out of.

 

[PoohBear321]

I just recently discovered the boards and I'm relieved now that I've seen this thread. My first and second trips to WDW I was a bit smaller than I am now and much more mobile so I walked the parks and pretty much rode any ride I was interested in. Our trip last December was the first in several years and our first with DS...14 months at the time. Other than standing next to him on the carousel and taking him on the Nemo ride I sent him on rides with my FIL because I was afraid I wouldn't fit on anything and was terrified of the embarassment of not being able to fit on something. I went to a local amusement park many years ago...when I was quite a bit smaller than I am now...and was humiliated by not fitting in a ride which was emphasized by some VERY rude people running the ride (I had previsouly ridden this ride but they changed the restraints) and have had a fear of that happening again ever since. I was worried that our upcoming trip...in October in honor of DS's second birthday...would be less enjoyable for him because the inlaws won't be going and he'd have to skip rides. But reading that "supersize" people like myself can ride so much more than I thought is a great relief. I've always been too timid to just ASK a CM if they thought I'd fit ok.

Last year was also the first time I've rented a scooter to get around. I had walked the parks the first few days and was ending up skipping things we planned to do because I was too exhausted and in too much pain to do much of anything after the first day. It was tough to not only admit I needed one but I also worried about looks I might get from people for being in one. I did get a few "why does SHE need that?" looks but I ignored them and for the first time was able to say to myself that if this was the only way I could enjoy my trip then so be it. We're planning on renting a scooter to use for the entire trip here in Jersey (if it'll fit in our van with all of the luggage and stuff) or renting one when we get to Disney. For anyone that has rented from one of the places listed in the FAQ...do they carry not only the regular scooters but the ones for larger people as well? I know most carry the models that accomodate up to 350lbs but I need one of the sturdier models that can accomodate heavier than that.

I love showing all of my favorite things to my son and seeing everything through his eyes. I don't want my size and mobility issues to ruin anything for him. After reading some threads here on the boards I'm relieved and reassured that we'll have a good vacation and he won't miss out on anything. I'd love any tips, advice, personal experiences, etc that anyone would be willing to share.

 

[Cheshire Figment]

Hi PoohBear321 and to disABILTIES!

I know that at least Walker's (in the list of ECV sources in the FAQ) has some ECVs with a 450 capacity; I don't know if anyone has higher ones (if needed) but they all have either toll-free numbers or e-mail addresses in their web sites and you can get specific informaiton.

And, by the way, Private Messaging is enabled; to check or send PMs just click on where it says "Private Messages" as the very top of the page. To send either a PM or e-mail to any member just click on their name in any post and make your selection.

 

[5dwarves]

After reviewing a lot of the photos and posts on this site, I feel confident that my Baloo sized husband (pooh is a little too short for comparison) shouldn't have any access issues at Disney. I am concerned though about Universal. We are going to WDW on a wish trip and are being given a ticket package that includes WDW, Universal and Sea World. Any advice on issues that may arise at the other parks?

 

[MousekeMommy]

PoohBear321
Oh, your post brings tears to my eyes!!! I know you want DS's trip to be magical and not "mommy can't do that". . . Please rest assured that children think that their mommy is the most beautiful woman on earth (and you are!!!) I have taught children a long time and can say that just having mommy with them on a special trip is enough--appearances aren't everything--especially in a child's eyes!!! Unconditional love and a kind, fun-loving heart means sooooo much more!!! If you at least try to do the fun stuff, children will remember that!

 

[grumpy.uncle]

I would definitely rent an ECV for your visit. Most of the rental companies will deliver and pickup your scooter in the lobby of your hotel. The CM's at Disney are very accomodating and will make you feel very comfortable. I've never had a problem fitting on one of the rides. I do have issues w/ sitting in the ever shrinking seats on the airlines for a cross-country flight from CA to FL. It just about kills me. I can't afford to fly first class.On my last flight to WDW, I really wanted to offer the little teeny girl sitting in first class some sort of bribe to switch seats w/ me. I don't know how her parents would have reacted to that though.

 

[faindrops27]

I just recently discovered the boards and I'm relieved now that I've seen this thread. My first and second trips to WDW I was a bit smaller than I am now and much more mobile so I walked the parks and pretty much rode any ride I was interested in. Our trip last December was the first in several years and our first with DS...14 months at the time. Other than standing next to him on the carousel and taking him on the Nemo ride I sent him on rides with my FIL because I was afraid I wouldn't fit on anything and was terrified of the embarassment of not being able to fit on something. I went to a local amusement park many years ago...when I was quite a bit smaller than I am now...and was humiliated by not fitting in a ride which was emphasized by some VERY rude people running the ride (I had previsouly ridden this ride but they changed the restraints) and have had a fear of that happening again ever since. I was worried that our upcoming trip...in October in honor of DS's second birthday...would be less enjoyable for him because the inlaws won't be going and he'd have to skip rides. But reading that "supersize" people like myself can ride so much more than I thought is a great relief. I've always been too timid to just ASK a CM if they thought I'd fit ok.

Last year was also the first time I've rented a scooter to get around. I had walked the parks the first few days and was ending up skipping things we planned to do because I was too exhausted and in too much pain to do much of anything after the first day. It was tough to not only admit I needed one but I also worried about looks I might get from people for being in one. I did get a few "why does SHE need that?" looks but I ignored them and for the first time was able to say to myself that if this was the only way I could enjoy my trip then so be it. We're planning on renting a scooter to use for the entire trip here in Jersey (if it'll fit in our van with all of the luggage and stuff) or renting one when we get to Disney. For anyone that has rented from one of the places listed in the FAQ...do they carry not only the regular scooters but the ones for larger people as well? I know most carry the models that accomodate up to 350lbs but I need one of the sturdier models that can accomodate heavier than that.

I love showing all of my favorite things to my son and seeing everything through his eyes. I don't want my size and mobility issues to ruin anything for him. After reading some threads here on the boards I'm relieved and reassured that we'll have a good vacation and he won't miss out on anything. I'd love any tips, advice, personal experiences, etc that anyone would be willing to share.

PoohBear321. I just wanted to give you a and reassurance, that everything will be just fine at Disneyworld!! You and your family will have a fabulous time. Forget about the people who stare, or whisper. My grandfather, use to always tell me. When people feel the need to put other's down. They really feel bad about themselves inside. So, you don't have to let that bother you in the least. You know who you are, and the way I see it. You seem like a wonderful mother, and person, no matter what size you are!! Have a wonderful vacation!!!

 

[faindrops27]

After reviewing a lot of the photos and posts on this site, I feel confident that my Baloo sized husband (pooh is a little too short for comparison) shouldn't have any access issues at Disney. I am concerned though about Universal. We are going to WDW on a wish trip and are being given a ticket package that includes WDW, Universal and Sea World. Any advice on issues that may arise at the other parks?

Universal, is not that forgiving, as Disney. According, to his weight. There are bigger seats on rows 3&6 of the Hulk. I cannot remember what rows on Dueling Dragons. You would just have to ask the attendent. I am 6ft, and around 260 last I checked. But, I am top heavy, and the bigger seats on hulk fit me, but I am stuffed in. I do not know how heavy or tall your hubby is. But, if he is within my range. On weight he should fit no problem, because he has no top. Dudley's if he is taller than I, that will be a very tight fit, as my legs were wedged in. Popeyes is easy, he can sit alone, make sure he tells an attendant he needs to sit alone. So, he can use the two seats, so he can buckle himself in. Any more questions. Just ask. Have a great trip!!