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An injury and crutches almost prevented me from going to a conference at Disney World, but I’m here and I’ve learned a lot…
Disability Access at Disney World {Daily Dash: April 25, 2023}
IN MY LIFE:
As most of you know by this point, I strained my hamstring (among other things) last week playing tennis with my son and two other guys half my age. I didn’t know if I’d be able to even make it to my conference at Disney this week!
But after narrowing down the diagnosis and prognosis with a PT, I felt like I had a plan that would help me make it through on my own in Orlando.
That being said, I’ve learned a few things along the way that have definitely helped this week, especially when it comes to DAS (Disability Access Service) at Disney:
- You can sign up for DAS in advance. I went online, agreed to the Terms & Conditions and then had to wait for a video call with a cast member. I literally had to wait for HOURS. I didn’t love that part, but it did keep me from having to do it once in the theme park.
- Once you are approved for DAS services, it lasts for 60 days without reapplying.
- DAS won’t ask you what your condition is (they don’t want you to share personal medical information), but instead want to know what services they can provide to help while in Disney Parks.
- DAS Lightning Lane Access doesn’t push you to the front of the line, but allows you to return after the traditional standby wait time and enter in through the Lighting Lane.
- When you apply for DAS in advance, they allow you to pre-select two attractions per day before arriving.
- Wheelchairs and electric scooters are available to rent at the entrance of each Disney Park. Wheelchairs are $12 per day or $10 when you buy a multi-day pass. (You just have to return the wheelchair to each park at the end of the day and then show your receipt at the next park).
- Complimentary wheelchairs may be available at the resorts or monorail stations to help transport you until you get to the park entrance.
- You can also rent an ECV mobility scooter from an outside company.
Most of all, my PT said “Don’t be a Hero”. I was initially embarrassed to ask for a wheelchair. However, when he said to do what I could to stretch and get around the hotel, but not to be afraid to use a wheelchair in the parks, I took that to heart. Not only did it save my strength and help manage pain, it helped me not to hold back my group.
I’m by no means the expert on this topic, but I now have a lot of experience from a first-time user of Disney’s disability services, so let me know if you have any questions!
Book your next Disney Vacation for less
IN THE NEWS:
- President Biden officially joins 2024 election race
- Disney laid off several thousand workers across the company this week
- Tucker Carlson of Fox News and Don Lemon of CNN were both let go yesterday
- Harry Belafonte and the actor behind Dame Edna both passed away
- Aaron Rodgers traded to NY Jets
- National Drug Take Back Day
IN THE WORD:
Readiness means having a right relationship with God and having the knowledge of where we are – Oswald Chambers
PRAYER FOCUS: Trust
As I’m away at a conference this week, I’m so grateful that I have the ability to work hard, even while injured! Nothing in life is ever easy, so I pray you find something you don’t mind working hard at!
Stay in the know on the go:
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Hope you have a great day, make sure you make it great and don’t forget to tell someone you love how you feel about them!
