what can disney do for terminal guests celebrating..?

[disneydude365]

ok i was wondering can disney, or does disney do anything for guests with terminal disorders, or illnesses? to help make the trip more magical. On the upcoming October trip we are planning, part of our celebrating is the fact that thanks to an enzyme replacement weekly treatment, I've managed to live a decade past what i was expected to live, I'm 23 next month. (i have hunter syndrome, MPS2, Mucopolysaccharidosis
truly disney is so special to me already but we were wondering if disney might do any little extra stuff to sort of highlight the trip? we know make a wish has lots of connections, and they do so much good with the children they bring to disney, i know i was one when before i got part of a clinical trial to test the enzyme replacement therapy before it got approved.
Im not wanting anything like that or to take away from the kids, just something to help celebrate living life and overcoming so many obstacles despite everything playing against me growing up. would calling and letting the resort know what we are celebrating be an ok idea, and asking if something small might be able to happen?

I'm asking on here for opinions on if i should or not. i don't see the harm in asking but i know a lot of people get upset when sick people try to get a little more attention

 

[smiths02]

I'm sure others will chime in, but I'm personally not aware what all Disney can do.

If you call, you can note a celebration on your resort reservation and all your ADRs. I wouldn't necessarily do this while asking for something, but just note it. Sometimes people get room upgrades, free cupcakes, etc. (and sometimes you get nothing)

If you have a disability because of your medical conditions, you can check out the DISabilities board for accommodations that can be made (wheelchairs, scooters, food restrictions, DAS card, etc.).

You can also pay for a myriad of special experiences, cakes, florist gifts, fireworks viewings and boat charters, VIP tour guide, etc. But I am thinking you are asking about free things?

 

[disneydude365]

I'm sure others will chime in, but I'm personally not aware what all Disney can do.

If you call, you can note a celebration on your resort reservation and all your ADRs. I wouldn't necessarily do this while asking for something, but just note it. Sometimes people get room upgrades, free cupcakes, etc. (and sometimes you get nothing)

If you have a disability because of your medical conditions, you can check out the DISabilities board for accommodations that can be made (wheelchairs, scooters, food restrictions, DAS card, etc.).

You can also pay for a myriad of special experiences, cakes, florist gifts, fireworks viewings and boat charters, VIP tour guide, etc. But I am thinking you are asking about free things?

not wanting free things, i think the letting them know just so it could be noted, maybe have a character know your name, or just be known
not wanting line jumping privileges or anything like that or merchandise, just small things to sorta make the trip more special

 

[lost*in*cyberspace]

I'm not sure what you would want them to do? People go to WDW every day who are in similar circumstances or are facing other traumas or have overcome terrible hardships and tragedies. Wear a name tag, then characters can address you by name. Plan on having a great experience on your own. Have fun.

 

[EPCOTgrl1]

As far as I know Disney does not do anything like what you are asking. People doing Give Kids the World and other programs may get something (i.e. cards that let them use the FP line or a stroller as a wheel chair as well as special events thrown by the the company that they are using), but since they cracked down on the Medical Cards they have not been giving anyone any special treatment. That is what happens when people abuse the system.

You can always add that information to resort reservations, ADR, and even get an "I'm Celebrating" pin with what you are celebrating write on the pin.

When I was working there I had a group of kids that all had different, life threatening disorders, and NONE of them got any special treatment that I know of. They made the trip their own. I really think that is what you have to do. You can make this trip anything you want it to be. I just wouldn't go in there expecting to receive any special treatment or free merchandise.

 

[lanejudy]

First, congrats on beating the odds with your diagnosis and treatments! Modern medicine can do some awesome stuff.

I suggest simply having your reservation noted that you are celebrating -- maybe celebrating life after illness, celebrating treatment ending, or whatever is most appropriate and how you wish it to be worded. Get a "Celebrating" button, and maybe bring a Sharpie to add "Life!" or something. CMs will notice your button and may ask about it or say "congratulations." Anything more is pixie-dust -- and, well, that really can't be planned or requested. Otherwise you should plan to pay for any special experiences you might want such as a fireworks cruise or special dinner.

Enjoy your vacation!

 

[shm_helene]

I have no idea but congratulations on being such a survivor!! I rread through some of your blog out of curiosity and it sounds like you have had a really tough life, especially at a young age. And have a great attitude. I would never judge you about getting different treatment because Ihave never lived in your shoes and if people do they are just idiots and who cares! Anyways, You are right, it definitely doesn't hurt to ask! Do check out the disability board though you might get more information there! Good luck, I hope you have an absolutely amazing trip!!!