GAC abuse

[Christine43]

On another boards someone had mentioned that she'd heard two women talking and laughing about the fact that one of them was going to get a GAC to use at Disney. She also came to understand that they didn't actually need it. This enrages me and worries me to no end. I have two boys who are on the Autistic spectrum and I always get a letter from one of their myriad of drs. to present at City Hall or the like. How are people w/o this kind of proof getting the cards?? I take it it's not mandatory? It absolutely should be. One big concern I have is that this kind of help could become extremely limited or stop altogether because of this kind of abuse. Does anyone know if this is becoming a problem and how they're dealing with it? The GAC has been a huge source of support for our family and I would hate for it to end although I think mandatory letters would be an adequate response to this issue. Thanks.

[Shorty82]

How are people w/o this kind of proof getting the cards?? I take it it's not mandatory? It absolutely should be.

They can't ask for proof. The ADA makes it illegal for a company to require proof of a disability.

[DisneyMom]

I always think that Karma will come and bite people like that in the butt:twisted:

[turkeyham]

This one family bugged a cast member selling turkey legs in Fantasyland. They said since they have the card, they get everything free. NOT going to happen. The smart cast member called back and got a manager and security out to their cart. The family was removed because they had lied and there was no GAC card on them. Also, dad was arrested for being drunk in the park.

Seriously folks, if you fake something and try to get something free, you will not get it for free. :mad:

[felinefan]

When I worked at Knott's, I think they had to provide a doctor's note to get a handicap pass. I remember that they had what the person's problem was--mental retardation, autistic, etc.. But then again, Knott's did alot of illegal things when I was there, and got away with them.

[DLRFantasmic!Dan]

This one family bugged a cast member selling turkey legs in Fantasyland. They said since they have the card, they get everything free. NOT going to happen. The smart cast member called back and got a manager and security out to their cart.

Good for the Cast Member!! Where did the family that they hear that?!?!?! That is absurbed!!

[mechurchlady]

There are two aspects to the law that apply to GAC.

First they cannot question a guest as to their disability. GACs are given based on the needs and limitations of the guest. The stamp for no stairs tells the CM that the person has difficulty with ramps like Star Tours or cannot do steps like at Toy Story Mania. A doctor's not is not needed or wanted. The GAC is there to help the guest get the best experience and to aid CMs who greet and load rides.

Second applies to special treatment and the company or agency can ask for proof of disability. For example the local zoo allows disabled guests to bring someone into the zoo for free or the parks system gives disabled guests free admission to National parks In that case the disabled person is getting something beyond what others get, free admission. Shuttles instead of trams would not apply as it is only providing a form of transportation.

thus is it above and beyond what other guests get? If not then no notes and no questions asked. They can deny the GAC if the person was lying blatantly but that is another legal matter.

[Tinker Bell]

On another boards someone had mentioned that she'd heard two women talking and laughing about the fact that one of them was going to get a GAC to use at Disney. She also came to understand that they didn't actually need it. This enrages me and worries me to no end. I have two boys who are on the Autistic spectrum and I always get a letter from one of their myriad of drs. to present at City Hall or the like. How are people w/o this kind of proof getting the cards?? I take it it's not mandatory? It absolutely should be. One big concern I have is that this kind of help could become extremely limited or stop altogether because of this kind of abuse. Does anyone know if this is becoming a problem and how they're dealing with it? The GAC has been a huge source of support for our family and I would hate for it to end although I think mandatory letters would be an adequate response to this issue. Thanks.

:blowup: This is a touchy subject for me and I'll admit that. While entertainment doesn't take GAC, there are certain locations that have been working with them in the past and some still do. Recently the whole GAC has become yet another source of problems. If I'm not mistaken (and someone already answer it) we can't question the disability and I'm guessing that anyone can go and ask for a card, and should be able to get one. As for it becoming a problem, I'll be blunt and say that more and more I see guest misusing this card. In fact I would say it's already a problem. I saw a manager past thru a GAC line a total of 15 people (when the card only had 6) so they can meet the character. Then left the attendant in charge to deal with the enraged guest that had been waiting an hour in the line. The attendant got cursed and yelled by the :angrymob: Which if you can put yourself in those people shoes it was understandable, that line had little kids and babies and all waited patiently their time.

I'll be honest and say that I have lost a little bit of sympathy for the GAC card. It's hard not too when so much abuse is going on. I have gotten YELLED and threaten to report me and "have my job" because "I'm a disability guest and you are making me wait." I have come to realize that most of the time when people get all high and mighty and demand prompt access, they turn out to be guest who don't need the card or is abusing the system. This card has been the source of so many problem and incidents I don't know where to begin to tell them all. A CM of entertainment got a reprimand because he follow the rules and instructed the guest to go thru the regular line that was abilitated for wheelchair and disability access. Another guest with his wife started arguing with cast members because he's son was autistic and he couldn't wait. They were trying to assist him, but there were other GAC guest before him. Other people were there first and yet the guest wouldn't have any of it. He wanted for them to pass him NOW. Never mind that among those waiting there were Make a Wish families. He didn't care about that because apparently he just couldn't wait no amount of time, as minimal as that would be. It wasn't that the cast members were being difficult, they were trying to help them, but we can't control that there is other people also with disabilities ahead of you; not to mention that people have been waiting in line and they have small children and problems too that you may not be aware. All they were asking was for a little patience and consideration, yet none was given. They ended up passing him ahead because it's was so crowded, managers won't back you up, and to be honest we are only mere mortals and get fed up. It was just easier for whatever little mental sanity we have left.

As for what the management and what the company is doing I'll say with no reservations that I don't feel (at least in entertainment) it's much. Actually let me rephrase that. I think that many times they aid the guests in breaking the rules that they initially set up. Fortunately for my sanity, entertainment doesn't work with GAC (MAW is a whole different ball park). Only designated locations have GAC lines or special procedures and I try to avoid them.

I realize that this came off as a rant, when it wasn't meant to be. I'm not ranting at you, I'm just venting my frustrations here, because it really is frustrating to be caught in the middle seeing the abuse, being ignored and then see the guest rewarded when they cheat the system. It's almost impossible to not let it get to you when every time I encounter a GAC I get the whole "I can't wait" thing. The card isn't meant to shorten out times, it says so on the card and yet guest won't listen or read.

[Cheshire Figment]

I have this bad habit of stopping people (at Indy) when they flash a GAC at me and tell them I need to examine it. I will look at the stamps and also the expiration date. If I am really suspicious I will ask for the person whose name is on the GAC by name.

And usually I will end up telling them that (a) there is no alternate entrance, and (b) the lines are protected from the sun.

I have yet to have someone come up with a special GKTW stamp without a child; if that ever happened I would confiscate the card and turn it over to a manager. Possibly even call Security if the person gave me a hard time.

[DisneyMom]

Very Sad that people are so blatantly abusing the system, but many have just lost all sense of common decency and become greedy ME monsters- this does include some who have family members with real disabilities as well.
Believe Me, they act that way EVERYWHERE, not just the parks. You can only hope they get arrested or something someday.:twisted:

[Noctourne Wonderland]

I'm just curious- does the GAC help people who can't stand in line for long periods of time?

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

Very Sad that people are so blatantly abusing the system, but many have just lost all sense of common decency and become greedy ME monsters- this does include some who have family members with real disabilities as well.
Believe Me, they act that way EVERYWHERE, not just the parks. You can only hope they get arrested or something someday.:twisted:

Hmm, perhaps its time the ADA was ammended?

Have an ADA card issued by a Medical Doctor, that simply identifies the person. It dosn't HAVE to state what disability, just that the person needs accomodation under the ADA act for various things. It would make things a LOT eaiser at places like airports, trains, trams, parking, amuzement parks, buildings, and so on and so on. That MIGHT cut don't on some of the abuse.

[felinefan]

The Orange County Transportation Authority here in California, and I'm sure other bus companies have similar requirements as well, have specific rules for applying for a disabled bus pass, as well as a senior citizen pass. You must provide specific identification when applying in order to qualify for the reduced fare pass. You must also show this identification along with your pass or when paying the reduced fare. Accepted identification cards are an OCTA Reduced Fare ID card, OCTA ACCESS Reduced Fare ID card, a Medicare card, a Service Connected Veteran ID card, or a Braille Institute ID card; for seniors 65 and up, they must have an OCTA Senior Reduced Fare ID card. Coach operators can also accept other transit systems' senior/disabled ID, a DMV Disabled Person placard customer receipt copy as well.

They won't accept the following: Medi-Cal State of California Benefits ID card, Cal Optima Health Care card, the eligibility approval form for an OCTA Reduced Fare ID, Social Security Benefits documentation paperwork, Social Security card, a note from your doctor, or any other form or documentation other than the above.

It goes without saying you have to have proof of disability in order to qualify to get the ID cards. Since OCTA has to inquire about the disability in order to confirm that one qualifies, perhaps Disney could come up with something similar. No ID, no wheelchair or other handicap transportation, no passes for the handicap line. I once read that some old lady was with her family at Disneyland Resort, and she was crying because there were no wheelchairs left--most of them had been taken by lazy people who didn't really need them. And she needed a wheelchair badly--apparently didn't have one of her own.

[Teddykeiko86]

:confused:Okay, when you have an austic child, what does the GAC card entitle you to do? Go through FastPass right? Or do you get immediate boarding? Does any GAC card allow for immediate boarding? Because I feel that everyone is capable of waiting in line, for at least 15 minutes. Although that is not possible on all rides, some get immediate boarding. But the immediate boarding should be for the disabled person and one accompanient only, not the whole party of 6. They may not be able to stand, but they can sit for a few minutes while their party waits in line.

One thing that pisses the hell out of me is people who say they have a bad back and can't stand. But they can go on jarring, bumpy rides?? Doesn't make sense. They should put a stamp on those peoples passes that say not valid on ( the rides with the red triangle) certain rides.

I just feel that people are taking advantage of the whole thing. Not everyone is taking advantage, but some are, and it is obvious.
At Uni we had a GAP. Guest Assistance Pass. It had 4 stickers. Gate A, allowed guests to go through the gate A entrance at any attraction. The Alternate entrce sticker was so stupid, because if they were in a wheelchair you always sent them through the alternate entrance. And if they had that card for some reason without the chair, you sent them throught the gate A. The Return time pass was the most common. If the wait time was more than 15mins, you gave them another pass to come back a later timein fifthteen mins. For example if it is 4:30 and the wait time is 1 hour, you gave them a card to come back at 4:45. The guess hated this pass. "Why do we need this?" they would whine. "Why can't you just let us in?" "They let us right on at _____" "That's not fair, you should just let us in"....:mad:
Then there was the front row pass. Ha. This sucked. This was to let hard of hearing and poor sighted guests sit at the front in all shows. Shows, Not rides. I got flashed this card at Mummy all the f***ing time. Plus, at T2, the reflective captioning didn't work well in the very first row. So when we seated guests in the first row of the second section, they would flash the card and point to the 'front row' sticker.

What really sucked was that anyone with a credit card was given a wheelchair. The employees were supposed to tell the guests to go to GR and get a GAC or else they wouldn't get to use it in the attraction. But the guests hardly went and got the GAP. Some even said "Yeah, they told us to get it, but we didn't think it was nessasary". :confused:
Ha. Or the "Where do I get the pass?" When I told them it was right next to the place they got the wheelchair, they'll say "that is too far away"

Anywayz,
What different types of GAC are there? And what does GKTW stand for?

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

The Orange County Transportation Authority here in California, and I'm sure other bus companies have similar requirements as well, have specific rules for applying for a disabled bus pass, as well as a senior citizen pass. You must provide specific identification when applying in order to qualify for the reduced fare pass. You must also show this identification along with your pass or when paying the reduced fare. Accepted identification cards are an OCTA Reduced Fare ID card, OCTA ACCESS Reduced Fare ID card, a Medicare card, a Service Connected Veteran ID card, or a Braille Institute ID card; for seniors 65 and up, they must have an OCTA Senior Reduced Fare ID card. Coach operators can also accept other transit systems' senior/disabled ID, a DMV Disabled Person placard customer receipt copy as well.

They won't accept the following: Medi-Cal State of California Benefits ID card, Cal Optima Health Care card, the eligibility approval form for an OCTA Reduced Fare ID, Social Security Benefits documentation paperwork, Social Security card, a note from your doctor, or any other form or documentation other than the above.

It goes without saying you have to have proof of disability in order to qualify to get the ID cards. Since OCTA has to inquire about the disability in order to confirm that one qualifies, perhaps Disney could come up with something similar. No ID, no wheelchair or other handicap transportation, no passes for the handicap line. I once read that some old lady was with her family at Disneyland Resort, and she was crying because there were no wheelchairs left--most of them had been taken by lazy people who didn't really need them. And she needed a wheelchair badly--apparently didn't have one of her own.

Hmmm, interesting. HOW do some of the more....umm, MILITANT people that use the ADA stand on this? I have seen threads on another board when they state, no, SCREAM that no one can ask you about your disability under the ADA, and you do not have to prove anything. to anyone, ever. Did Orange County transit get an exemption because they are a government organization?

And that exemption is not vaild on private companies? (DLR/WDW, etc.)

interesting.

[DisneyMom]

I believe the GAC (never used one) allows someone with Autism to hopefully have a shorter wait, but this cannot be guaranteed (I recall visiting DLR at Christmastime with Princess Susi, who can't stand for too long due to back problems, and the GAC line for Pirates was extended out to NOS.)
We gave up and watched Billy Hill instead.
I could see how someone with back problems might not be able to stand too long (especially if their sciatic nerve is affected- my thigh goes numb from standing/ walking for long periods sometimes) but I suppose it would depend on the person and the ride if it would aggravate their particular problem. For instance, I have ridden Space Mountain so many times, I adjust for all the memorized bumps and turns and consider it a smooth ride despite all the warnings.:)

[tinkybell]

I would like to say that I do have a child with a disability. She has Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis and uses her wheelchair while we are on vacation. We actually home school because the walking around the school was too much for her. Her immune system is compromised because of the methotrexate and Humira that she takes so we have found after some pretty bad experiences it is better for her if we use her chair. Not only does the heat make it exhausting for her but standing for too long and or sitting too long tend to make her very stiff. So she has to alternate between walking and the chair. (sometimes I think people think she is faking which bothers me because I know the truth!) We use the GAC which I have to say has been a blessing for her.We didn't find out about until we had some pretty bad experiences with major flares while on vacation. With GAC, it clearly states on the card it does not get you front of the line access. Our experience has been at times we have to wait longer for certain rides. Which is fine with us. I would question anyone who demanded more than what the card is designed for and I probably would make it policy to confiscate such GAC if a person demanded things for free, or no waiting. The pass is not a fast pass!! Seems to me if they are demanding more than allowed they are probably cheating the system.
We are a large family with 6 kids, and while I know it may seem as an abuse to the system when you see 8 people use the GAC it assure you not all instances are. We take vacation as a family and we all want to share the experience of the rides together. If I had to choose to allow my daughter and only one guest ride with out her brothers and sisters I probably would choose to vacation somewhere else.

It really worries me that people who do abuse the system will make people who really need the system go away. Disney has always accommodated our families needs but the last time we went we had a hard time getting a GAC for our family. They said they only allowed up to 5 guests. While I know this seems very reasonable with a normal sized family, it is not reasonable for ours. Our family consists of DH, myself and 6 children under the age of 12. My daughter with JRA is about to be 10. So I really wouldn't want to pay for a vacation where DH and I would have to split the kids up.

I promise you...My daughter really hates that she has JRA and needs the chair...I would trade anything kind of GAC or advantages any day to have a healthy and happy little girl.

I do think working at Disney and seeing the abuses gives some CM's a warped way of looking at everyone with the GAC.( I do think it is okay to question certain people with a GAC but try not to think everyone is doing something wrong) Please remember that there are people out there, while their disability is not visible, who truly need the assistance. Not everyone is out to buck the system and get something they are not entitled too. I never understood why I would get a hard time about getting a GAC for 8 people, until after I started reading online about the abuses. For me it is a no brainer because we are not trying to cheat anyone. We just want to have as normal of a family vacation as we can together.

So please remember while there are some really stupid guests out there not all of us are. Thank you!

[ktulu]

Anytime you have something in place that gives a benefit (real or perceived) to someone, there is a segment of society that is going to either exploit/abuse it, or find a way to get it for themselves.

[felinefan]

Hmmm, interesting. HOW do some of the more....umm, MILITANT people that use the ADA stand on this? I have seen threads on another board when they state, no, SCREAM that no one can ask you about your disability under the ADA, and you do not have to prove anything. to anyone, ever. Did Orange County transit get an exemption because they are a government organization?

And that exemption is not vaild on private companies? (DLR/WDW, etc.)

interesting.

Granted, I haven't read the entire text of the ADA, but I think it's to keep people from discriminating based on disability. There would have to be times when it's appropriate to ask, in order to qualify for a reduced fare bus pass, etc., or a handicap placard, but if a potential employer asks someone with a disability what their handicap is, that's a violation, and could be percieved as such if the applicant doesn't get the job. There's always going to be a segment of any population that will be militant about this of this nature. I mean, about the only time an employer could ask what an employee's disability is would be after they were hired, and then for a case where they needed adaptive equipment in order to do their job, or in the event of an emergency, for example. If they become injured or ill on the job and have to be taken to the hospital, the hospital staff need to know what, if any, medications the person is on, as well as what their handicap is, because certain drugs, anesthesia, etc., shouldn't be used when a patient is taking certain medications or with certain medical conditions.

For the OP who asked what GKTW means, it's Give Kids The World; similar to MAW, Make A Wish.

[Teddykeiko86]

Let me clear someting up...
Let me say that I do believe the GAC is a godsend for families with disabilities. Valid disabilities, not visible, since many disabilities are invisible. Yes I can see it how it is difficult to split up a large group (family) with small children. In those cases, the whole group should be allowed to wait together. But large groups ( tour groups and reunions) can sacrifice to split. I am terribly sorry, but the whole Smith family of 35, dosen't need to go through the exit on BTMRR because Jonny is in a wheelchair with a broken leg or even CP. There has to be a line drawn somewhere.
Yes of course large families with young children should NOT be separated, that is to difficult for the parents. I can deffinately see from the parents perspective. And as difficult as it is to say, of course the general public is going to think that (9o% of) children in wheelchairs are faking, because that is the common snap judgement. People automatically assume that children are supposed to be healthy are resillent. They don't expect to see them in wheelchairs and when they do, the assume they are faking, cuz what child would not want to ride in a wheelchair? But some know better. Long before the days of GAC I had a cousin with hydrocephillis (sp?). So in her case, it was obvious. But when you see a child dart out of their wheelchair and hop into a bobsled, you have to be a little suspisious. It is hard to be faithful, because so many people abuse it or think it applies to them for obscure reasons "My 5 week old is deaf therefore we need a GAP".
I just feel that GAC should be for those with physcial alliments, metally diabled children and etc. I am just really sensitive about people taking away something meant for people who really need it. It is like parking in a HC spot, with out a plaquecard.

:)

[lady ulrike]

We are a large family with 6 kids, and while I know it may seem as an abuse to the system when you see 8 people use the GAC it assure you not all instances are. We take vacation as a family and we all want to share the experience of the rides together. If I had to choose to allow my daughter and only one guest ride with out her brothers and sisters I probably would choose to vacation somewhere else.



First off let me say that we generally know when people are cheating based on how they react to having to wait and other such things. But about this problem. I don't know for sure about WDW, but at Disneyland, we will still allow the group to ride together. Our solution to this type of problem is some of the group waits in the regular line, and for your size group it would only have to be two people, and when they get close to the front the rest of the group comes into the wheelchair area and we put you all on together. I do work in Fantasyland where it is pretty easy to see when your group is at the front of the line and we usually have little or no wheelchair line so it's easy to get the group on together. I know at Pirates there's generally a long wheelchair line, so that may not work there. You guys could use this policy to your advantage if you have a couple of kids who are too young/scared/whatever to ride some of the bigger rides (assuming, of course, that your daughter with the wheelchair is up for these rides) Basically, you or your husband wait in line for say Pirates with the kid or kids that cannot/do not want to go on Splash. The rest of your group can go on Splash through the wheelchair line and then head to Pirates to join the ones that have been in line. Like I said, this assumes that the policy is the same at WDW and I would always check in with the greeter CM before even attempting something like this...make sure they know you'll be joining the rest of your party when they get to the front of the line.

Just my 2 cents

[tinkybell]

Let me clear someting up...
Let me say that I do believe the GAC is a godsend for families with disabilities. Valid disabilities, not visible, since many disabilities are invisible. Yes I can see it how it is difficult to split up a large group (family) with small children. In those cases, the whole group should be allowed to wait together. But large groups ( tour groups and reunions) can sacrifice to split. I am terribly sorry, but the whole Smith family of 35, dosen't need to go through the exit on BTMRR because Jonny is in a wheelchair with a broken leg or even CP. There has to be a line drawn somewhere.
:)

I agree 100%! Even if my mom or my dad went with us, I could still understand splitting the party up. However, when it is mom and dad and 6 kids then it is a little hard. The kids don't understand why they are split up and then my daughter has guilt over having to use the wheelchair.

Disney has always tried to help us and it was only 2 times I can think of where they told me I could only have a 6 people on my pass. I politely asked to speak to a supervisor and they allowed 8 people. If we were part of a tour group or field trip with a school then I would not expect everyone to be able to ride with her. If this is the type of request that is commonly made at guest services, I now understand the reasoning for their reluctance to issue the GAC with 8 people.

When we do Disney we are never in a hurry and take our time. For us, waiting in line is part of the experience. We only live 2 hours away and we use Epcot and Animal Kingdom a lot for educational retreats.:D: We just love being there. If we can't get on a ride this time we can do it next time. I really never understood why people can get so snarky over a ride or things in a resort. (I watched a man pretty much abuse a CM one night because concierge was closed after 11 pm:( I felt so bad for the CM. He kept it professional, when I know I wouldn't have. :twisted: ) Stupid guest exist everywhere. :eek:

Honestly, I wish they would require a parking disability decal(hangy thing-lol for lack of a better word) or a letter or statement from the Dr. I think it would assure Disney their policies are not being abused and it would make the person asking for the GAC feel like the person behind the counter/ride actually believes them. My daughter has a permanent disability parking sticker for our car.

I know this is against ADA laws but really if you have a disability and you are asking for accomodations what is the problem with proving you actually need them?? With a children in public school, you can just tell the teacher the child needs accomodations, they need to go through an entire process with written notes from the Dr and an official diagnosis. They then go through a 504 plan or an IEP to figure out what modifications and or accomodations the child needs. So I don't think it would be too much for Disney to request someone show proof what their needs are. KWIM?

[DisneyMom]

Some people do not want to share the reason they are disabled, and want no
way to discern them from anyone else. I suppose it would vary from person to person, but would you want to reveal to Disneyland that you cannot stand for long due to having muscle wasting from AIDS, or a tumor on your spine from lung cancer? These are extreme examples, but I'm thinking that Disney is trying to avoid that situation.
I've actually known of parents who don't want to tell their kid that the kid has been diagnosed with Autism.:eek: These are the people who might get upset revealing a diagnosis to others.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

Some people do not want to share the reason they are disabled, and want no
way to discern them from anyone else. I suppose it would vary from person to person, but would you want to reveal to Disneyland that you cannot stand for long due to having muscle wasting from AIDS, or a tumor on your spine from lung cancer? These are extreme examples, but I'm thinking that Disney is trying to avoid that situation.
I've actually known of parents who don't want to tell their kid that the kid has been diagnosed with Autism.:eek: These are the people who might get upset revealing a diagnosis to others.

That may be True, but if they do not want to reveal it (even to the kid) they WHY would they ask for special assistance (GAC) and how do they explain it?

I think a simple I.D. card that states they need assistance would be of a GREAT value. and it dosn't have to say anything about their condition, only that they need special accomodation. (Wheelchair access, no prolonged standing, no direct sunlight, etc. etc.)

Something like that handed to a CM when requesting a GAC card and/or other assistance would make the CM's (and the guests) situation a whole lot eaiser. It would also eliminate a lot of the "faking" of the needed accomodation, and in general, if the public knew that a bonified ADA identification card was needed to obtain said services, a lot of them would probably drop the attitude that EVERYONE was faking problems, simply to get to the head of the line. (I know, but they believe thats what happens)

[mechurchlady]

It is the law as to why Disney will not ask why a person needs a GAC. The GAC is to meet limitations not medical things like mental illness, aids, retardation, cancer or blindness. Also CMs do not have time to waste discussing medical history. name, number in party, number of parks, number of days, limitations such as no stairs.

Laurie S...., party of 6, both parks, for a week, no stairs

Bye bye as soon as she is done filling in the card.

I did stairs at Splash Mountain but paid for it the next day and was so tired I slept like 8 hours. I do waddle onto rides at times as it is easier that taking out the walls on rides like Monsters.

[Cheshire Figment]

The thing is the GAC is intended to give as equal access as possible to people with disabilities as people who do not have the special needs.

The reason other locations, such as a bus company, is allowed to ask for proof of disability is they are giving a reduced price which equates to better access than people who do not have special needs.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

The thing is the GAC is intended to give as equal access as possible to people with disabilities as people who do not have the special needs.

The reason other locations, such as a bus company, is allowed to ask for proof of disability is they are giving a reduced price which equates to better access than people who do not have special needs.

OH. So if Disney offerred the GAC with a built in "fastpass" they could require proof of the disability?

That seems fair, in that it would speed up the wait time for the person utilizing the ADA, and it would eliminate a lot of fraud. Everybody wins!

but I suspect it is not that simple. Yes/No?

[DisneyMom]

That may be True, but if they do not want to reveal it (even to the kid) they WHY would they ask for special assistance (GAC) and how do they explain it?

I think a simple I.D. card that states they need assistance would be of a GREAT value. and it dosn't have to say anything about their condition, only that they need special accomodation. (Wheelchair access, no prolonged standing, no direct sunlight, etc. etc.)

Something like that handed to a CM when requesting a GAC card and/or other assistance would make the CM's (and the guests) situation a whole lot eaiser. It would also eliminate a lot of the "faking" of the needed accomodation, and in general, if the public knew that a bonified ADA identification card was needed to obtain said services, a lot of them would probably drop the attitude that EVERYONE was faking problems, simply to get to the head of the line. (I know, but they believe thats what happens)

No disagreement that a system like that would help to eliminate fakers.

As the system exists now,I imagine the people who don't want to reveal a diagnosis would make something up for the kid as to why they were going in a different line...
(mom can't stand in line so long, we got a special dream from Disneyland, etc.)

[jjarman]

A coworker of mine just returned a couple of weeks ago from a trip to WDW with her family which included her husband who is a quadriplegic and their twin boys. I asked her if they used the GAC and she said they didn't really need it because most rides they rode had walkways that accomodated his chair. I think it was safari ride in AK where they tried to go an alternate route and were told they could not without the card. They would have to go back to guest services which is on the other side of the park so they just skipped the ride. I mean it was quite obvious what his disability was but they didn't push it. On the other hand though for another ride another guest said they ought to say he can't wait in the sun so they could go to the front of the line on some rides. I think he got a little offended because he said he liked sitting in the sun.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

You would think that the CM would allow them in the wheelchair line, when its that obvious!

[hobie16]

You would think that the CM would allow them in the wheelchair line, when its that obvious!
Because of his disabilities, my step-son would use his wheelchair in the parks. We never knew we needed a GAC as every CM on the attractions moved us into the easy access line. Pretty cool.

[Zazu]

You would think that the CM would allow them in the wheelchair line, when its that obvious!As long as the guest stays in the chair, we're supposed to treat them as if they had a GAC. That CM must have been some kind of a maroon.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

As long as the guest stays in the chair, we're supposed to treat them as if they had a GAC. That CM must have been some kind of a maroon.

Maybe he was having a bad day, or new on the job? You would think that the common sense would kick in!

(I know, I know...common sense...hehehehehhehee)

[mechurchlady]

As long as the guest stays in the chair, we're supposed to treat them as if they had a GAC. That CM must have been some kind of a maroon.

You are correct oh great bird of knowledge.

If the guest is obviously disabled such as on crutches, in a chair or ECV, or using a rollator then they do not need the GAC. The GAC is only for hidden disabilities. Sue over at disboards has reiterated that so many times that it now is like Small World, forever playing in my brain.

If a CM is wrong then you ask for a lead and work your way to the GM, lol. Some CMs make mistakes or are not trained right or do not know the rules. Purpura told me about gluten free food at Plaza Inn and I have have the park issued list of celiac free foods at the restaurant. I had to stand my ground and get someone else to check with the chefs to see what I could have. I won and with lots of napkins and ketchup had a nice meal.

[GaTechGal]

Thanks for all this great information folks. There's a possibility that we may end up going on a trip with my folks within the next year or so. Dad has gotten to the point that he can't walk for long distances (bad ankles and heart) and has taken to using the ECV's at the stores. So we'll be adjusting our usual commando style touring to accomodate him. Looks like we won't need a GAC and we can just use the DIS boards to find out about the queue lines for the attractions we'll be going on. He's not interested in any of the fast type rides so that will help a bit.

[lady ulrike]

As long as the guest stays in the chair, we're supposed to treat them as if they had a GAC. That CM must have been some kind of a maroon.

Well, over here at Disneyland, if they have a wheelchair and no GAC card and the queue is wheelchair accessible, they are supposed to go in the regular queue. Most lines in Disneyland are not wheelchair accessible, but all of DCA is.

[Lasolimu]

Well, over here at Disneyland, if they have a wheelchair and no GAC card and the queue is wheelchair accessible, they are supposed to go in the regular queue. Most lines in Disneyland are not wheelchair accessible, but all of DCA is.

I think I am going to have to go with "in theory" on this. You can get through all the lines in DCA, but if you are in one of the park ECVs than some of the lines have turns that can be difficult to make.

[Christine43]

I started this thread and I appreciate all your answers. I would personally not have any problem identifying my son's needs or disability but I don't take fault with anyone who does. However, we are getting treatment that others w/o the GAC aren't getting. In our case that means we are entering thru the FP lane more often than not making our wait shorter not nonexistent. My son has a very difficult time with very long lines and starts melting down which is why we use the GAC. We only use it when appropriate. We don't wait for character meets because the GAC is not supposed to be used for that purpose. This is why we take advantage of character meals. I have seen someone waving the GAC in the face of the character helper and yelling about it and it was again one of those incidents which makes others jaded about the GAC. I can understand why a CM might be apprehensive about guests with the GACs and this is what concerns me. They (families abusing the use of the card) may make it much more difficult for families like ours who really need it and don't abuse it. At one ride in December there was a CM at the GAC/FP entrance counting how many guests were using the GAC which also made me nervous. I want to add that my son has a twin brother who also has a disability - Asperger's Syndrome. I don't use the GAC for him because he really is pretty much ok with any line so it would be wrong to use it in his case when we split up which is very, very rare. We generally stay together as a family which is why there are 5 or 6 people on our card. Staying together is sort of the point of going to Disney as a family. Anyway, it was interesting reading your posts and hopefully this will continue to be a positive thing although I do wish there was a way to differentiate between those who are abusing it vs. those who are not.

[BRWombat]

Can you request a GAC card (sorry, that's redundant) if you have a compulsion to wear a warthog costume (http://www.stupidguesttricks.com/showthread.php?p=84864) in public?

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

Can you request a GAC card (sorry, that's redundant) if you have a compulsion to wear a warthog costume (http://www.stupidguesttricks.com/showthread.php?p=84864) in public?

Hmmm, only if its the back half!!!!


heheheheheheh

RUM?

[Noctourne Wonderland]

Can you request a GAC card (sorry, that's redundant) if you have a compulsion to wear a warthog costume (http://www.stupidguesttricks.com/showthread.php?p=84864) in public?

You get the GAC card from the ATM machine. ;)

On the topic of visual aides, my mum has a cane, which was used to get her in the shorter lines at Disneyland (she can't wait for a long time without pain), but at DCA, she was told that she needed a card (I assume the GAC), but it wouldn't reduce her wait time. Can someone explain how that is ADA compliant, if her handicap is that she can't wait? :confused:

[mechurchlady]

You get the GAC card from the ATM machine. ;)

On the topic of visual aides, my mum has a cane, which was used to get her in the shorter lines at Disneyland (she can't wait for a long time without pain), but at DCA, she was told that she needed a card (I assume the GAC), but it wouldn't reduce her wait time. Can someone explain how that is ADA compliant, if her handicap is that she can't wait? :confused:
It is way so ADA compliant.

She can use a wheelchair or scooter. The law is for equal access and by letting guests spend less time in line they are favouring unfairly that group. She can wait in line IF she got the chair or scooter.

My DLR ECV is too big for anything but fastpass at ToT so they gave me a fastpass for however many minutes the line was. In other words I could not use the fastpass line to save an hour in line but I could come back in an hour and use the fastpass line. That is as close to fair and equal as is possible.

I hate waiting in lines. If I can I use fastpasses, off hours, off seasons, off days, and single rider lines. I do not want to cut in line and wait less time than others BECAUSE I AM DISABLED. Because I am a kind and loving special princess who is sweet and cute as a button would be a good excuse, WRONG, not even for that would I want to get ahead of others. I want nearly equal access not special treatment.

Excuse me but I have to go wait in the Toy Story line for half an hour because I am not being treated specially because of my disability. happy dancing on the inside. :D:

[smart1hermione]

i was reading through this thread, and someone asked why a child with austism spectrum can't wait in line.

from personal experience, i know a little girl with autism spectrum. her family [her, mom, and sister] gets the GAC because she headbangs when she's not doing what she wants. needless to say, standing in line encourages the activity.

with that said, i'd say the most intense ride she's been on is maybe the carousel, which is her speed. i am intrigued by people who can't wait in line due to pain issues in order to get on... the matterhorn or space mountain...

[mechurchlady]

Let me see how much pain I have, right forearm, head, right lower leg, knees, and a giant bruise on my left lower leg. I CANNOT WAIT IN LINE but I do use an ECV which costs me $45 a day and for the rest of the month I will use a wheelchair if I want to go to parks. I will push it until I get to down hills and sometimes set in it. I am in pain and cannot stand in line for bobsleds BUT on the other hand I spend lunch money on renting an ECV or use the wheelchair.

Disney and other parks recommend guests come prepared like using a chair.

I can get antsy in line and for us neurovariants we need to keep busy so waiting in line may mean for me to eat, drink, read a book, listen to music, or talk to people, but I must be kept busy unless a nap is ongoing, done that a couple times.

[Rosie]

I am going to open myself up here and ask for opinions. I suffer from Miniere's Disease (it involves vertigo and deafness) while most people only get it in one ear, I have it in both. I can go months without any problem and ride anything I want. For the past 6 weeks, I have been having constant vertigo and balance issues. (Not that it really matters but I am totally deaf in one ear.) The kids took me to Animal Kingdom yesterday, while walking between Asia and Africa I had a bad spell made worse by people trying to push me out of their way. What would be my best option.....

Option A: rent a wheel chair when I know I am having an issue?
Option B: wait until it gets bad and ask a CM for assistance getting a chair?
Option C: Muddle through and leave the park early as we did yesterday, spoiling the day for my grandson?

Opinions?

(This is why I haven't been around the boards lately)
Rosie

[mechurchlady]

Get an ECV so you can get around easily. As long as you do not upset your equilibrium you will be fine with an ECV and if the room spins just pull over and park. If you have people to push you then get the wheelchair. If you feel good then walk while pushing it as that is what I do. I push our wheelchair to the tram area then set and push then get up and go up a ramp and set and wait.

It is better for you to be in a chair than be loopy and then having the crowd shoving you around which would make things worse. ECV should be no problem for you if you are aware of symptoms and early warnings. Narcolepsy on the other hand I would say no but for menierres I would say ok on ECV.

hugs
Laurie

[Zazu]

I am going to open myself up here and ask for opinions. I suffer from Miniere's Disease (it involves vertigo and deafness) while most people only get it in one ear, I have it in both. I can go months without any problem and ride anything I want. For the past 6 weeks, I have been having constant vertigo and balance issues. (Not that it really matters but I am totally deaf in one ear.) The kids took me to Animal Kingdom yesterday, while walking between Asia and Africa I had a bad spell made worse by people trying to push me out of their way. What would be my best option.....

Option A: rent a wheel chair when I know I am having an issue?
Option B: wait until it gets bad and ask a CM for assistance getting a chair?
Option C: Muddle through and leave the park early as we did yesterday, spoiling the day for my grandson?

Opinions?I have a similarly disabling problem with clusters of migraines. For two months I'll get one or two a day and bad ones can leave me unable to walk or see. Because they never last more than an hour or two, I'm unwilling to take a wheelchair (even though they're free for CMs). Each time I've needed one, my fellow CMs have found one and brought it to me. On good days, I hang nearby and return it when I can see again. Bad days, I just have whomever I'm with roll me over to First Aid where I can chill until able to drive home.

But you asked for opinions about your situation, not mine:

If you know that you're likely to have trouble before the end of the day, rent a chair. It can take quite a while to get on if the local chair stash has already been taken.

OTOH, if you never know if you'll need on or not, you can just beg help when you need it. This CM is always glad to help a guest in trouble, and even the worst only insist on pushing you straight to First Aid.

I don't recommend leaving early, unless you know the rest of your day is shot anyway. You came to have a good time, you certainly *paid* enough for one, you should stick around and enjoy as much as your body will let you.

[Big Wallaby]

A coworker of mine just returned a couple of weeks ago from a trip to WDW with her family which included her husband who is a quadriplegic and their twin boys. I asked her if they used the GAC and she said they didn't really need it because most rides they rode had walkways that accomodated his chair. I think it was safari ride in AK where they tried to go an alternate route and were told they could not without the card. They would have to go back to guest services which is on the other side of the park so they just skipped the ride.I read this and had a silent temper tantrum. What the effing bloody hell? There is no reason the CM should have done that. It's set up to be as easy as possible for the Cast Members.

If I was still at Safari I'd be getting a name right now.

Watch out, this wallaby's growling.

[BRWombat]

I read this and had a silent temper tantrum. What the effing bloody hell? There is no reason the CM should have done that. It's set up to be as easy as possible for the Cast Members.

If I was still at Safari I'd be getting a name right now.

Watch out, this wallaby's growling.Whatever you do, DON'T make Wallaby angry. You wouldn't like him when he's angry.

http://static.flickr.com/3271/2381186821_190d9f638e.jpg

[Lasolimu]

Whatever you do, DON'T make Wallaby angry. You wouldn't like him when he's angry.

http://static.flickr.com/3271/2381186821_190d9f638e.jpg

I would think he would look more like a large green wallaby, not a large green man.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

Whatever you do, DON'T make Wallaby angry. You wouldn't like him when he's angry.

http://static.flickr.com/3271/2381186821_190d9f638e.jpg

Oh my!!!

of course, I was thinking that it ould be more along the lines of a Ripper, from Tank Girl

hehehehe

powerful, but controlled!!

[Cheshire Figment]

Thanks for all this great information folks. There's a possibility that we may end up going on a trip with my folks within the next year or so. Dad has gotten to the point that he can't walk for long distances (bad ankles and heart) and has taken to using the ECV's at the stores. So we'll be adjusting our usual commando style touring to accommodate him. Looks like we won't need a GAC and we can just use the DIS boards to find out about the queue lines for the attractions we'll be going on. He's not interested in any of the fast type rides so that will help a bit.
If you are going to DisBoards, be sure to go to the disABILITIES! Forum. One of the first threads is the "disABILITIES FAQs"; in that posts #2, #3 and #6 would probably be most useful.

[mechurchlady]

If you are going to DisBoards, be sure to go to the disABILITIES! Forum. One of the first threads is the "disABILITIES FAQs"; in that posts #2, #3 and #6 would probably be most useful.
It is very helpful for general disabilities issues like what to do with a kid who is not potty trained at age six. It also has tips that can be used at either park.

Sue and a very sweet guy run that board and rarely do bad people get in there. I used to be very active there until someone brought up my past and said I was not good enough for that board. I still sneak in and post once in a while as they have helped me so much with tips on parks in general and dealing with our neurovariations.

do check that board out as they have so much for you to use for your trip.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

If you are going to DisBoards, be sure to go to the disABILITIES! Forum. One of the first threads is the "disABILITIES FAQs"; in that posts #2, #3 and #6 would probably be most useful.

Very true, I have sent quite a few to that site for info (some were not members of the board) wanting info on WDW and DLR travel with needs.

A lot of the practical and up to the minute good advice there comes from people that have made the trip in the past few months or so.

There are a few detractors when some posters get off an a tanget, (big suprise? not really, ha!) but for the most part it is usually spot on.

I did receive some info from a co-worker that used that site (without joining) and got a whole bunch of useful contacts that helped him plan a great vacation for his family. (they had adopted two special needs children, so were trying to "catch up" on providing to the needs of the kids, and making the trip one to remember!)

[Tinker Bell]

I am going to open myself up here and ask for opinions. I suffer from Miniere's Disease (it involves vertigo and deafness) while most people only get it in one ear, I have it in both. I can go months without any problem and ride anything I want. For the past 6 weeks, I have been having constant vertigo and balance issues. (Not that it really matters but I am totally deaf in one ear.) The kids took me to Animal Kingdom yesterday, while walking between Asia and Africa I had a bad spell made worse by people trying to push me out of their way. What would be my best option.....

Option A: rent a wheel chair when I know I am having an issue?
Option B: wait until it gets bad and ask a CM for assistance getting a chair?
Option C: Muddle through and leave the park early as we did yesterday, spoiling the day for my grandson?

Opinions?

(This is why I haven't been around the boards lately)
Rosie

I'm going with Option A. Like others I wouldn't recommend leaving early. I think that you should even rent it, before you are feeling a little off. Perhaps, it might prevent what happen that day? I don't know how your condition develops, but walking in the parks is information overload for the senses.

[Rosie]

I'm going with Option A. Like others I wouldn't recommend leaving early. I think that you should even rent it, before you are feeling a little off. Perhaps, it might prevent what happen that day? I don't know how your condition develops, but walking in the parks is information overload for the senses.


Thanks everyone. After a bad week we are going to give it a try again tomorrow. The kids insist I take a cane to help with balance since I had a bad spill while cleaning floors today. LOL, I have never seen a purple and green bruise on the palm of a hand but I have a real doozy. I am not going to give up!

Rosie

[rebelrebel]

I would like to say that I do have a child with a disability. She has Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis and uses her wheelchair while we are on vacation. We actually home school because the walking around the school was too much for her. Her immune system is compromised because of the methotrexate and Humira that she takes so we have found after some pretty bad experiences it is better for her if we use her chair. Not only does the heat make it exhausting for her but standing for too long and or sitting too long tend to make her very stiff. So she has to alternate between walking and the chair. (sometimes I think people think she is faking which bothers me because I know the truth!) We use the GAC which I have to say has been a blessing for her.We didn't find out about until we had some pretty bad experiences with major flares while on vacation. With GAC, it clearly states on the card it does not get you front of the line access. Our experience has been at times we have to wait longer for certain rides. Which is fine with us. I would question anyone who demanded more than what the card is designed for and I probably would make it policy to confiscate such GAC if a person demanded things for free, or no waiting. The pass is not a fast pass!! Seems to me if they are demanding more than allowed they are probably cheating the system.
We are a large family with 6 kids, and while I know it may seem as an abuse to the system when you see 8 people use the GAC it assure you not all instances are. We take vacation as a family and we all want to share the experience of the rides together. If I had to choose to allow my daughter and only one guest ride with out her brothers and sisters I probably would choose to vacation somewhere else.

It really worries me that people who do abuse the system will make people who really need the system go away. Disney has always accommodated our families needs but the last time we went we had a hard time getting a GAC for our family. They said they only allowed up to 5 guests. While I know this seems very reasonable with a normal sized family, it is not reasonable for ours. Our family consists of DH, myself and 6 children under the age of 12. My daughter with JRA is about to be 10. So I really wouldn't want to pay for a vacation where DH and I would have to split the kids up.

I promise you...My daughter really hates that she has JRA and needs the chair...I would trade anything kind of GAC or advantages any day to have a healthy and happy little girl.

I do think working at Disney and seeing the abuses gives some CM's a warped way of looking at everyone with the GAC.( I do think it is okay to question certain people with a GAC but try not to think everyone is doing something wrong) Please remember that there are people out there, while their disability is not visible, who truly need the assistance. Not everyone is out to buck the system and get something they are not entitled too. I never understood why I would get a hard time about getting a GAC for 8 people, until after I started reading online about the abuses. For me it is a no brainer because we are not trying to cheat anyone. We just want to have as normal of a family vacation as we can together.

So please remember while there are some really stupid guests out there not all of us are. Thank you!

My daughter has this too, she's 17 and on our last visit when she was 15 she got really upset with the stares from people when she'd get up from her chair and walk a bit because she was stiffening up. I must say that all of the CMs at WDW were fantastic with her, they would chat with her and make her feel important and special. We did have a long wait at AK when we went of the safari but we knew that the GAC was a pass to get to the head of the line. I thank all you CM for your help and appreciate you have a challenging job.

Tinkybell I hope your daughter's condition improves, my daughter has been on the methotrexate injections too, it wasn't a nice time, but she does seem to be improving now and life is getting easier, fingers crossed for the same for your little one :).

[tinkybell]

My daughter has this too, she's 17 and on our last visit when she was 15 she got really upset with the stares from people when she'd get up from her chair and walk a bit because she was stiffening up. I must say that all of the CMs at WDW were fantastic with her, they would chat with her and make her feel important and special. We did have a long wait at AK when we went of the safari but we knew that the GAC was a pass to get to the head of the line. I thank all you CM for your help and appreciate you have a challenging job.

Tinkybell I hope your daughter's condition improves, my daughter has been on the methotrexate injections too, it wasn't a nice time, but she does seem to be improving now and life is getting easier, fingers crossed for the same for your little one :).


Thank you...My daughter never had to have the mtx injections she was able to tolerate it by mouth. However, she has moved on to a different medication called Humira. It is a TNF blocker which blocks the TNF made but the arthritis. It is keeping her stiffness at bay for the most part but she still is having bony erosions on her joints. They increased her dose to every week instead of every other week in hopes it would heal them. We go back next month for a follow up MRI to see if there have been any changes. She is almost at the end of the line when it comes to medications. The next step would be Remicade which is given via an i.v. once a month. *sigh* I hate this disease!

I hope that your daughter continues to do well and I hope her disease goes into remission soon. They say around puberty it tends to go into remission sometimes forever sometimes not.

The Cast Members on this last trip made our trip extra special. When they addressed our party they always spoke to her first. It is the little things like that, that can make a huge difference in someone's life. She loves being addressed as a "Princess.";)

[anynamewilldo]

Okay, I don't know if this would be GAC abuse but it was definitely scooter abuse (and since we like to take things off topic here, I figure this sort-of-kind-of fit)... besides, I am anxious to tell this one!

(Channeling Sophia from Golden Girls...) Picture it - Hollywood Studios on a crowded afternoon on an always busy Pixar Avenue. I am standing at the front of the line waiting for the doors to open for a meet-and-greet with Buzz & Woody. Pixar Avenue is full of people including a 10+minute wait outside on the FP Return line (not to mention the overflowing amount of people in standby). Along comes fat kid 1 (about 12), fat momma (on scooter), fat daddy (more on him later), and fat kid 2 (about 5). The whole way (and I mean whole way) down Pixar Avenue, fat momma on her scooter is SCREAMING at people (honestly - people that are not in her way) including one girl around 12 or so who is walking beside her scooter but not in her way in the least. Fat momma ensues screaming tirade assualt on innocent girl and then starts yelling at her mom saying "That's how people get run over. You should teach your daughter to stay out of the way. That's how she's going to get herself run over!" Just making a huge butt of herself. Okay, that is bad enough, but here's where irony kicks in...

Fat daddy is walking BACKWARDS (did I mention the crowds) videotaping... what, you may ask, is he taping? Fat daughter #2 who has taken it upon herself to ROLL (arms flailing and all) ROLL herself DOWN THE ENTIRE STREET. And what is fat daddy saying the whole time to fat momma... LOOK - AIN'T SHE CUTE. All the while fat momma (while still screaming over her right shoulder) is looking back over the left shoulder and smiling and laughing at little precious who is rolling her fat butt down the street. There are people EVERYWHERE dodging her. And who do I feel the worst for?? Little old granny who is about 114 or so who is being pushed in a wheelchair by a loved one. The whole time, granny is about to fall out of the wheelchair because of the sudden stops that the pusher is having to make to avoid fat little precious rolling down the road.

There were absolutely NO CM's around for me to flag down. I just kept thinking "oh, how your picture should be posted on SGT" because of this whole crazy scenario.

(And yes, I am fat so I have the right to call others fat regardless of whether or not they are using the scooter.)

[DisneyMom]

That sounds waaaaaay more entertaining than my scooter story:eek:
But just mine quickly-
Main Street at Disneyland last Sunday, We are sitting at Carnation Cafe for lunch. It is very crowded. I spy Grandma on her ECV, slowly making her way up the street with a kid on her lap:rolleyes: I'm thinking, oooooooooh, an SG!
and just then it gets better- she stops suddenly for no apparent reason, and Grandpa who is on an ECV behind her, rams her:eek:
Fortunately, no one is hurt:D:

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

hehehehe

both stories are funny, I am glad no one was hurt.

but the girl rolling down the street, umm do they not know just how dirty that is?

[lady ulrike]

but the girl rolling down the street, umm do they not know just how dirty that is?

Actually, the ground at Disney parks is probably some of the cleanest outside ground you'll ever find. I'm not saying it's clean, but cleaner than others since it is sprayed down every night.

[mechurchlady]

Okay, I don't know if this would be GAC abuse but it was definitely scooter abuse (and since we like to take things off topic here, I figure this sort-of-kind-of fit)... besides, I am anxious to tell this one!

(Channeling Sophia from Golden Girls...) Picture it - Hollywood Studios on a crowded afternoon on an always busy Pixar Avenue. I am standing at the front of the line waiting for the doors to open for a meet-and-greet with Buzz & Woody. Pixar Avenue is full of people including a 10+minute wait outside on the FP Return line (not to mention the overflowing amount of people in standby). Along comes fat kid 1 (about 12), fat momma (on scooter), fat daddy (more on him later), and fat kid 2 (about 5). The whole way (and I mean whole way) down Pixar Avenue, fat momma on her scooter is SCREAMING at people (honestly - people that are not in her way) including one girl around 12 or so who is walking beside her scooter but not in her way in the least. Fat momma ensues screaming tirade assualt on innocent girl and then starts yelling at her mom saying "That's how people get run over. You should teach your daughter to stay out of the way. That's how she's going to get herself run over!" Just making a huge butt of herself. Okay, that is bad enough, but here's where irony kicks in...

Fat daddy is walking BACKWARDS (did I mention the crowds) videotaping... what, you may ask, is he taping? Fat daughter #2 who has taken it upon herself to ROLL (arms flailing and all) ROLL herself DOWN THE ENTIRE STREET. And what is fat daddy saying the whole time to fat momma... LOOK - AIN'T SHE CUTE. All the while fat momma (while still screaming over her right shoulder) is looking back over the left shoulder and smiling and laughing at little precious who is rolling her fat butt down the street. There are people EVERYWHERE dodging her. And who do I feel the worst for?? Little old granny who is about 114 or so who is being pushed in a wheelchair by a loved one. The whole time, granny is about to fall out of the wheelchair because of the sudden stops that the pusher is having to make to avoid fat little precious rolling down the road.

There were absolutely NO CM's around for me to flag down. I just kept thinking "oh, how your picture should be posted on SGT" because of this whole crazy scenario.

(And yes, I am fat so I have the right to call others fat regardless of whether or not they are using the scooter.)
WRONG WRONG AND BIGOTED WRONG

It was trashy people with spoiled kids not FAT PEOPLE. It is not the ASIAN DRIVER who cut me off yesterday but it was the NONTHINKING IDIOT DRIVER who cut me off.

I TAKE OFFENSE TO PEOPLE POINTING OUT THAT SOMEONE IS FAT JUST AS WE DO NOT SAY "Jewish barber", "Black waitress" or "Gay boss" in our speech.

I hate prejudice and I hate when people have to emphasis race, religion, ethnicity, size, disabilities etc. Some black people call each other by the N word but does that make it right, NO. It is not right at all and I am going to go puke or hit a wall now as this is so offensive.

[TechieSidhe]

Sadly, "fat" has become an acceptable prejudice and one that it is apparently okay to publicly make fun of.

Churchy, I find that when people have to use the word "fat" as an insult, it's because they're not creative enough to think of anything else. Anyone who uses the word fat to insult me gets a smile, and a laugh.

Calling me fat is like calling me brown haired, or green eyed. Yep, I'm fat.

The media has conditioned us to believe that fat people are stupid and lazy, and without self control. Sad, but true. There are very few fat people in positive roles on TV.

Fat is easy to make fun of, as the person doing the insulting does not actually have to know anything about you to do it. It's the lazy insult. It's when they'd actually have to work to FIND something to use, because there usually isn't anything.

[anynamewilldo]

I am fat and I'm called fat by others - okay, and if the shoe fits and all... the main culprit of being fat is being lazy (guilty) and while there are plenty of diseases and disorders that can lead to one becoming fat, I think people are too ashamed to admit that the major problem with obesity is simply being lazy. Is it entirely possible that this entire family has a disorder/disease that caused them to be fat? Yes. But is it also just as plausible to think that the entire family is lazy. YES!

Here is how I define lazy when it comes to being fat... It is so much tastier for me to drink sweet tea than water. It is so much cheaper for me to grab a pizza for dinner than to go grocery shopping for a well balanced meal. It is so much quicker for me to get take out than to have to meal plan.

I am tired of hearing terms like "the woman's section" or "for women like you" or "plus-sized" - okay, since when did it become unacceptable to call something for what it is? I am fat - I shop at the fat people's store.

"I am what I am" says Popeye - and I don't make excuses for it.

[anynamewilldo]

I have seen the error of my ways - here is a revised version of my story, in all the beautiful political correctness I can muster:

Once upon a time in a magical land full of butterflies and ladybugs, there was a very crowded meadow. The meadow was crowded because all the lovely and beautiful people were there to enjoy a show of lavender and lilacs blowing in the wind. Because so many lovely and beautiful people were there, and because no one in this magical land could ever do wrong or be wrong, this led to many times of having crowds appear before the beautiful lavender and lilacs show. While there were so many people out in the meadow watching this show, there appeared a beautiful family full of grace and love and harmony. Their halos shone around them perfectly and they were revered because they were so perfect. The older child, about 12, was beautiful and wonderful. The mother rode her magical ladybug while epitomizing grace and perfection. Because she showed such grace and perfection, she shared her magical powers of harmony with others by giving out strong cautions to the others standing around her. One of these bystanders was about 12, and she apparently didn’t know that she was not to walk beside the magical ladybug. “Be careful,” the kind and wonderful woman riding the magic ladybug warned “because you may end up under the wings of this magical ladybug.” “Oh,” the woman full of grace and love and harmony continued to the girl’s mother “how I do worry for your daughter when she walks close to my magical ladybug – she may get hurt.” The father of this magical family was a delightfully talented soul and found that walking backwards was his way of sharing his talents with others around him. And finally, the younger child, about 5, was sharing her magical powers of joy by rolling herself down the meadow. Although it was a very crowded meadow, and many others had to stop suddenly to avoid hitting her, no one in the magical family seemed to notice. In fact, the mother, so full of grace and harmony and perfection, was smiling and laughing along with the father while the beautiful little precious just rolled and rolled and rolled throughout the meadow. The mother, being perfect and full of harmony and grace found the ability to simultaneously enjoy her daughter’s special talent, while still being able to give out the cautions to others around her. It was such a beautiful and magical day in the meadow for all.

[ktulu]

I liked your first version better.

[BRWombat]

I have seen the error of my ways - here is a revised version of my story, in all the beautiful political correctness I can muster:

Once upon a time in a magical land full of butterflies and ladybugs, there was a very crowded meadow. The meadow was crowded because all the lovely and beautiful people were there to enjoy a show of lavender and lilacs blowing in the wind. Because so many lovely and beautiful people were there, and because no one in this magical land could ever do wrong or be wrong, this led to many times of having crowds appear before the beautiful lavender and lilacs show. While there were so many people out in the meadow watching this show, there appeared a beautiful family full of grace and love and harmony. Their halos shone around them perfectly and they were revered because they were so perfect. The older child, about 12, was beautiful and wonderful. The mother rode her magical ladybug while epitomizing grace and perfection. Because she showed such grace and perfection, she shared her magical powers of harmony with others by giving out strong cautions to the others standing around her. One of these bystanders was about 12, and she apparently didn’t know that she was not to walk beside the magical ladybug. “Be careful,” the kind and wonderful woman riding the magic ladybug warned “because you may end up under the wings of this magical ladybug.” “Oh,” the woman full of grace and love and harmony continued to the girl’s mother “how I do worry for your daughter when she walks close to my magical ladybug – she may get hurt.” The father of this magical family was a delightfully talented soul and found that walking backwards was his way of sharing his talents with others around him. And finally, the younger child, about 5, was sharing her magical powers of joy by rolling herself down the meadow. Although it was a very crowded meadow, and many others had to stop suddenly to avoid hitting her, no one in the magical family seemed to notice. In fact, the mother, so full of grace and harmony and perfection, was smiling and laughing along with the father while the beautiful little precious just rolled and rolled and rolled throughout the meadow. The mother, being perfect and full of harmony and grace found the ability to simultaneously enjoy her daughter’s special talent, while still being able to give out the cautions to others around her. It was such a beautiful and magical day in the meadow for all.Now that's funny!

I saw a stand-up comic one time, a big guy like me, talking about one time performing at a school and having a teacher complain afterwards that he called himself "fat" in his act. He said the exchange went something like this:

Him: Okay, if I can't use "fat," what should I say?
Her: Um... "husky"?
Him: Lady, I'm a porker. I haven't been "husky" since 7th grade! Come on, you're the educator. Give me something creative.
Her: (after a few moments of thought) I know -- you're "biscuitous."
Him: What?
Her: "Biscuitous"... You know when you have an unopened tube of biscuit dough, and you peel the outer paper off and then it pops open, and poof! Biscuitous!

Here's to all us biscuitous people in the world!!! :D:

[Lasolimu]

I liked your first version better.

I agree on this, but I want to know what kinds of drugs would make it the second version. I want some.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

I agree on this, but I want to know what kinds of drugs would make it the second version. I want some.

The drugs are called being "PC" for the second version. (plus maybe a little RUM? hehehehehe)

the first description of them was probably more accurate. they were fat and SG's, acting in an SG way. The observer of the SG behavior reported what was seen. the description was summed up into one or two words. I find the story to be accurate and not any different that a LOT of the SG stories posted here. Why are some posters picking apart this one?

oh, and even though I know they clean the walk areas, if the crowds were as they say, the ground is still pretty dirty! if nothing else, think about the park goers walking into restrooms and other places that are less than...sanitary, and walking out, then walking in the area where the little darling was "rolling" (an apt description for a little round person being video taped by dad)

hehehe

[hobie16]

I got a '60s flashback from reading the second one.

[BRWombat]

I got a '60s flashback from reading the second one.Were there tangerine trees and marmalade skies?

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

Were there tangerine trees and marmalade skies?

PICTURE YOURSELF IN A BOAT ON A RIVER....

OMG the Beatles were talking about the Disneyland Jungle Cruise!!!!

hehehehehe

or possibly something else?

[hobie16]

Canoes maybe?

[DisneyMom]

Here's to all us biscuitous people in the world!!! :D:

Mmmmmmmm......Biscuits!
I like butter and orange marmalade on mine!:D:

[mechurchlady]

I am fat and I'm called fat by others - okay, and if the shoe fits and all... the main culprit of being fat is being lazy (guilty) and while there are plenty of diseases and disorders that can lead to one becoming fat, I think people are too ashamed to admit that the major problem with obesity is simply being lazy. Is it entirely possible that this entire family has a disorder/disease that caused them to be fat? Yes. But is it also just as plausible to think that the entire family is lazy. YES!

Here is how I define lazy when it comes to being fat... It is so much tastier for me to drink sweet tea than water. It is so much cheaper for me to grab a pizza for dinner than to go grocery shopping for a well balanced meal. It is so much quicker for me to get take out than to have to meal plan.

I am tired of hearing terms like "the woman's section" or "for women like you" or "plus-sized" - okay, since when did it become unacceptable to call something for what it is? I am fat - I shop at the fat people's store.

"I am what I am" says Popeye - and I don't make excuses for it.
I LOVE SGT AND WILL NOT GET BANNED.
I LOVE SGT AND WILL NOT SAY ANYTHING THAT WILL GET ME BANNED.
SOMEONE HUG ME AS THIS IS KILLING ME.
I WANT TO DO BAD THINGS AND SAY BAD THINGS
I AM HURTING INSIDE AND THIS PERSON IS A SENSELESS HATE MONGER.
PLEASE MAKE THIS STOP.
I DO NOT WANT TO BE BANNED BUT I CANNOT TAKE THIS HATE SPEECH ANY MORE.

Goes off to cry which lead to depression and eating to feel better because I do not do the happy pills and booze.

[anynamewilldo]

GrumpyPirate - I would love to share the rum with you anytime :D:

BRWombat - I am PROUD to be BISCUITOUS - thanks for the laugh :D:

[Goofyernmost]

I LOVE SGT AND WILL NOT GET BANNED.
I LOVE SGT AND WILL NOT SAY ANYTHING THAT WILL GET ME BANNED.
SOMEONE HUG ME AS THIS IS KILLING ME.
I WANT TO DO BAD THINGS AND SAY BAD THINGS
I AM HURTING INSIDE AND THIS PERSON IS A SENSELESS HATE MONGER.
PLEASE MAKE THIS STOP.
I DO NOT WANT TO BE BANNED BUT I CANNOT TAKE THIS HATE SPEECH ANY MORE.

Goes off to cry which lead to depression and eating to feel better because I do not do the happy pills and booze.

Why would you go off and get depressed over matters that you have no control over. You can only control your own feelings and lead by example. You cannot force others to feel the same way.

I am fat and I own that situation...no one made me fat other than myself. The word itself has no other meaning than as a descriptive adjective. I will agree with you that in this case the use of the word was absolutely unnecessary and not even relevant. Any of the actions mentioned in the story had absolutely nothing to do with ones size, it was strictly personality based. Again the use of FAT was totally without meaning or merit other than to show disdain for it and associate it to irresponsible behavior. Because of that and because of that only, I also feel the offensiveness and imagined superiority of the OP in this case.

So we partially agree...the use of the word fat in this story was very, very offensive. That shouldn't send you into a spiral, it is the users way of showing anger, hatred and bigotry...but not yours, it's theirs. The word is just a word. By itself it means nothing. I believe in myself and nothing anyone can say will alter that. I know who and what I am. Fat and proudly aware that nothing has ever held me back or interfered with how well I have done in life.

[turkeyham]

Laurie,

You are just fine. My friends are about the same weight as you are. I did get over weight after I graduated from high school. After getting my present job, I gained about 150 pounds. I was put on a diet when I found out I was in my best friend's wedding. I am close to 180 lbs. I have to loose more weight.

:)

[lady ulrike]

I will agree with you that in this case the use of the word was absolutely unnecessary and not even relevant. Any of the actions mentioned in the story had absolutely nothing to do with ones size, it was strictly personality based.

I have to disagree. I think that the fact that the kid was fat and rolling down the street just helps all of us reading the story imagine all the better what it was like. Just my opinion.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

GrumpyPirate - I would love to share the rum with you anytime :D:

BRWombat - I am PROUD to be BISCUITOUS - thanks for the laugh :D:

HEY!!! RUM FER EVERYBODY!!!!!!

BISCUITOUS!!! I like that hehehehehehe!

Reminds me of the exploding biscuit episode of Myth Busters!! hehehehe

[Goofyernmost]

I have to disagree. I think that the fact that the kid was fat and rolling down the street just helps all of us reading the story imagine all the better what it was like. Just my opinion.

Well, I can imagine it either fat or skinny and it really doesn't change.

The implication here is that the only reason it was happening was because they were fat. That continues on that this behavior, whether it be yelling at people from a "scooter", walking backwards filming and rolling on the street would never had happened if they had been gloriously thin. Those actions described would have been, at the very minimum, head shaking done by anyone. Fat isn't part of the scenario. Sorry, but it just isn't plausible or necessary to convey what was going on.

When the story was told and FAT mother, FAT father and FAT children were placed with so much emphasis it became almost the total issue and all about physical and not personality expectations. Like, oh well, they were fat...what do you expect!

[lady ulrike]

Again, fat is a descriptor, an adjective. It helps the person reading the story picture the scene better. Just like saying a stormy night helps the reader see exactly what it was like better than just saying one night. That's all it is, a descriptor that applied to these people. I think the emphasis was to show that they were very fat not that the situation would happen only because they were fat. I think the OP was trying to say they weren't just a little overweight they were FAT. When you're only communicating through written word, you have to use some little things that can be taken different ways, unfortunately. I think this was the OPs way of saying very fat, like if you said...there was this guy and he was TALL. I don't think anyone would say oh you're saying that would only happen if the guy was tall, no then I think everyone would simply say oh that guy must have been really tall.

[DisneyMom]

Meh, the real objective of the story was to point out the odd behavior of the guests, but FAT is always going to be a hot button:cool:
I'm fat (biscuitous:p:), but I am at a stage where I really only care about it in terms of my health, it is not because I'm a bad person or lazy. I do see every day the terrible things that happen to people when they can't control their weight for whatever reason:( I have the same feelings whenever I see someone who has caused their own health problems whether it be from the use/abuse of a substance, starving themselves,too much plastic surgery, whatever. It is sad.
However, if you are going to use my health problem to ridicule me or discriminate against me, when I get a chance I'll CRUSH your skinny ass!:twisted:

[Goofyernmost]

Again, fat is a descriptor, an adjective. It helps the person reading the story picture the scene better. Just like saying a stormy night helps the reader see exactly what it was like better than just saying one night. That's all it is, a descriptor that applied to these people. I think the emphasis was to show that they were very fat not that the situation would happen only because they were fat. I think the OP was trying to say they weren't just a little overweight they were FAT. When you're only communicating through written word, you have to use some little things that can be taken different ways, unfortunately. I think this was the OPs way of saying very fat, like if you said...there was this guy and he was TALL. I don't think anyone would say oh you're saying that would only happen if the guy was tall, no then I think everyone would simply say oh that guy must have been really tall.

And if it were pertinent to the story I would agree. In this case the over emphasis on the word doesn't fit the story line. Fat does not equal stupid. You can't fix stupid...thanks Ron White!

[ktulu]

I have to disagree. I think that the fact that the kid was fat and rolling down the street just helps all of us reading the story imagine all the better what it was like. Just my opinion.

I agree.

I LOVE SGT AND WILL NOT GET BANNED.
I LOVE SGT AND WILL NOT SAY ANYTHING THAT WILL GET ME BANNED.
SOMEONE HUG ME AS THIS IS KILLING ME.
I WANT TO DO BAD THINGS AND SAY BAD THINGS
I AM HURTING INSIDE AND THIS PERSON IS A SENSELESS HATE MONGER.
PLEASE MAKE THIS STOP.
I DO NOT WANT TO BE BANNED BUT I CANNOT TAKE THIS HATE SPEECH ANY MORE.

Goes off to cry which lead to depression and eating to feel better because I do not do the happy pills and booze.

Lots of hate in that post as well, not to mention attacking the OP. What is that word I am looking for...


So we partially agree...the use of the word fat in this story was very, very offensive. That shouldn't send you into a spiral, it is the users way of showing anger, hatred and bigotry...but not yours, it's theirs. The word is just a word. By itself it means nothing. I believe in myself and nothing anyone can say will alter that. I know who and what I am. Fat and proudly aware that nothing has ever held me back or interfered with how well I have done in life.

I'm offended that you are offended, you should go sue yourself.

And since we are quoting movies, "Lighten up Francis."

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

I agree.



Lots of hate in that post as well, not to mention attacking the OP. What is that word I am looking for...



I'm offended that you are offended, you should go sue yourself.

And since we are quoting movies, "Lighten up Francis."

hehehehe

I loved Stripes

The thing is the OP was "painting a word picture" and the image that description conjures up is one of absuridity. The fat description sums up in one word, the spectacle that occurred from them being of a portley nature, and yes, would add a bit of clownishness to the whole Tableau.

The site makes fun of stupid guests. Is it getting too "PC" that a poster cannot describe what was seen, in his or her own words?

are the PC police going to want the site operator to shange "Stupid Guest" to "mentally challenged guest"

Common people lets get over our problems and realize that the post is NOT about you and your precieved "slight", its just the OP describing an SG!

If you take things personal on this, or any other discussion board, perhaps you should just step away from the computer.

RUM time!!!

[mechurchlady]

Well, I can imagine it either fat or skinny and it really doesn't change.

The implication here is that the only reason it was happening was because they were fat. That continues on that this behavior, whether it be yelling at people from a "scooter", walking backwards filming and rolling on the street would never had happened if they had been gloriously thin. Those actions described would have been, at the very minimum, head shaking done by anyone. Fat isn't part of the scenario. Sorry, but it just isn't plausible or necessary to convey what was going on.

When the story was told and FAT mother, FAT father and FAT children were placed with so much emphasis it became almost the total issue and all about physical and not personality expectations. Like, oh well, they were fat...what do you expect!

And if it were pertinent to the story I would agree. In this case the over emphasis on the word doesn't fit the story line. Fat does not equal stupid. You can't fix stupid...thanks Ron White!
Thank you so much.

Too many bigots believe that fat people are lazy. That fat people just set and eat and eat. They only see us fat people as lazy. I gained 30 pounds and most of it was soda pop. Most bigots think that fat people are lazy but do not realize that drinking one can of soda pop a day can add 14 pounds a year. Just 10 calories a day extra can add on 10 pounds a decade.

The bigots say fat people are lazy. Actually there are metabolic disorders that cause weight gain. Did anyone, especially the bigots, read Gurgi's story? Studies show that how the mother eats affects the size of the baby before it is born. The bigots tell you that fat people are lazy but do not mention that being fat means spending more money on clothes and spending more energy getting around. The bigots tell you that fat people are lazy but do not address why they are fat.

I was stuffed as a kid by my mother who is a neurovariant like me. I will go jogging with bigots who say us fat people are lazy but first wait for me to get out of bed. My knees are stiff. My knees and walking hurts but tell the government to get me a scooter so I can go to Disneyland to exercise. I spent Thursday walking a bit at a time. I would love to run and jump and lift weights to loose weight but I am crying at night when the pain gets so bad that my can no longer type and I drop things because of that wrist.

Wow SGT is allowing hate speech and people to attack a group of people. I go to wait for banishment for saying how I feel. I do not tolerate hate speech or attacking any group except stupid guests. Wow has SGT changed.

[kurtisnelson]

Ahem. Moderating marsupial (or other small animal) needed aisle 12.
Saying fat is perfectly fine. The name of the compound that makes people large is called fat. And I think part of the reason we have such a fat problem in the US is that we are too PC to tell people they are fat and need to lose weight for their health.
SGT's purpose is to share stories of what SGs do, and involves plenty of story telling. As part of telling a story, you have to pick words and ways of wording things to properly express what you saw and properly make stuff up to make it sufficiently entertaining since we have SUCH a high standard.

[Syndrome]

Fat daddy is walking BACKWARDS (did I mention the crowds) videotaping... what, you may ask, is he taping? Fat daughter #2 who has taken it upon herself to ROLL (arms flailing and all) ROLL herself DOWN THE ENTIRE STREET. And what is fat daddy saying the whole time to fat momma... LOOK - AIN'T SHE CUTE.
All controversy aside, I love the mental image. I keep picturing Violet Beuregard rolling her fat, round blueberry butt down the street.

(For what it's worth. I have some extra pounds myself, and there ain't no good reason for it other than the fact that I love to stuff my face.)

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

All controversy aside, I love the mental image. I keep picturing Violet Beuregard rolling her fat, round blueberry butt down the street.

(For what it's worth. I have some extra pounds myself, and there ain't no good reason for it other than the fact that I love to stuff my face.)

Don't we all, Syndrome, don't we all!!!

RUM? (its low in caloriesl!!!)

hehehehe

[hobie16]

Don't we all, Syndrome, don't we all!!!

RUM? (its low in caloriesl!!!)

hehehehe
One shot has 56 calories. (http://caloriecount.about.com/calories-rum-i77494)

Tequila has 104. I'm screwed! (http://www.thedailyplate.com/nutrition-calories/food/patron/tequila)

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

One shot has 56 calories. (http://caloriecount.about.com/calories-rum-i77494)

Tequila has 104. I'm screwed! (http://www.thedailyplate.com/nutrition-calories/food/patron/tequila)

HEHEHEHE

Just shift ta RUM and tell your DW that you have cut your calories almost in half!!!

Hey, who knew? RUM is a health and diet drink!!!

hehehehe

[Goofyernmost]

Saying fat is perfectly fine. The name of the compound that makes people large is called fat. And I think part of the reason we have such a fat problem in the US is that we are too PC to tell people they are fat and need to lose weight for their health.

Exactly when did this become any of your business. I'll let you know when I need saving.:mad:

[lady ulrike]

First of all, it doesn't matter if being fat is pertinent to the story, it's a descriptor it helps paint the full picture, that's all it is. If the OP wanted to say they were lazy, I'm sure they would've said lazy. I think the real problem here is people are reading the word fat and assuming the OP means lazy. Quite frankly the OP never said lazy and in any subsequent posts, never once said that they meant lazy.

Now, mod hat on.......the personal attacks (and there's been a couple) need to stop, or there will be some infractions thrown out and I don't think any of us want that. By all means, debate your heart out (heck I'm part of the debate myself) but do not attack each other.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

Thank you.

thread hijack attempt: Over


Hey everybody.....



RUM!!!!

hehehehe

http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj227/GP-1/428473474_826960ebac_phixr.jpg http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj227/GP-1/kitty.jpg

[BRWombat]

I agree with some of you and disagree with some of you, too. Not sayin' which, because I like all of you. :D: :D: :D:

But much more importantly...
http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj227/GP-1/428473474_826960ebac_phixr.jpg http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj227/GP-1/kitty.jpgHEE! Pirate kittens!!! :D:

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

I agree with some of you and disagree with some of you, too. Not sayin' which, because I like all of you. :D: :D: :D:

But much more importantly...
HEE! Pirate kittens!!! :D:

hehehehehe

I was on another site and someone sent them to me.

The one in my SIG looks a lot like my kitteah that took over my home office!

hehehe

[Lasolimu]

The one in my SIG looks a lot like my kitteah that took over my home office

I guess it really is a pirate kitteh if it is stealing offices. Though office theft may put it above the standard pirate.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

I guess it really is a pirate kitteh if it is stealing offices. Though office theft may put it above the standard pirate.

Hmmm, corporate raider Kitteah?

Or would that be Home Office raider Kitteah?

hehehehehe

[SkipperGordon]

GAC abuse seems to happen a lot more when the parks are crowded. We had a 65 minute wait at Jaws yesterday and a woman came up to me at greeter and asked where her father should go in her wheelchair. I informed her that all of our lines are wheel chair accessible and that she could go through our main entrance. She looks at the wait time sign looks at me and then comes up with this gem. "He has diabetes. He can't wait that long."

Ok, I'm not a health professional so somebody feel free to correct me; but last time I checked there is nothing that prevents a person with diabetes from sitting in a chair, in a shaded and ventilated enclosure where food and drink are permitted for 65 minutes. Does not compute.

I told her that our lines were wheelchair accessible but if she had a family member who she felt needed special accommodation then she could go to guest services and ask if she qualifies for a GAP pass. Of course, by the time she got to Guest services the story was "Jaws lady said I could have free Express!" Yeah, my lead got a call about that one but I'm pretty well known for clear communication so they took my side.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

hehehehhe

Sounds like she had the "SG ear filter" engaged, so that she could only hear what she wanted to hear!!!

[Natural Selection Fan]

She looks at the wait time sign looks at me and then comes up with this gem. "He has diabetes. He can't wait that long."

I get so tired of that!

SG at GR Office: "SkipperG belittled my medical condition and
refused to let me ride!"

And the compensation begins...... :bsflag:


Two hours later in SMgr's office: "SkipperG, you got a guest concern for not
violating the SOP/OG/Training Guide by letting SG skip to the front of the line. Here's
your verbal warning. Do you like my $300 shoes and tweed jacket? They wouldn't let
us dress like this at K-Mart."

[CBeilby]

I would have loved to see her try to get away with that with me.

Sg: He can't stand that long. He has diabetes.

Me: So do I. Over the course of my eight hour shift, I get two fifteen minute breaks and one thirty minute lunch*. Otherwise, I'm standing the entire day.

Sg: .....

(* I don't know if UO crew members get the 20/45/20 breaks that we got at USH when I was still there.)

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

I would have loved to see her try to get away with that with me.

Sg: He can't stand that long. He has diabetes.

Me: So do I. Over the course of my eight hour shift, I get two fifteen minute breaks and one thirty minute lunch*. Otherwise, I'm standing the entire day.

Sg: .....

(* I don't know if UO crew members get the 20/45/20 breaks that we got at USH when I was still there.)

hehehehhe

Maybe they should have you respond to all those types of SG's!!

do you carry the little kit that is available?

[Meltissa]

I have one son with Autism and one with CP and it makes me sick to think of people cheating the system. I would trade their long wait time for my child being "normal" any day.

Autism has many different degrees. My ds can not wait long for anything while some other of classmates with mild autism can wait with no problem. It is hard to explain but basically his mind does not understand time. There is no 5 minutes from now it is all NOW! Trust me I'm a frazzled mom most of the time at home because if the bus is 5 minutes late he is in full meltdown mode crying for his school bus. Anyway, for WDW we do use the GAC but I do understand that we are not special or get to the front of the line. We do use the fastpass entrance but if it gets backed up and he can't wait we just leave the line. We are no better than anyone else, we just need assistance. I am so grateful for the GAC, it is truly a blessing.

As for my son with CP, he wears a leg brace but it is mild CP. He just does not have the stamina to walk around WDW or the long queues. He has his own wheelchair that we bring but is able to get out of it and stand when it's time to load. Sometimes he gets tired from being in it all day and wants to get out and walk a bit so I let him. We have gotten a few looks but so what, walk a mile in his shoe.

Laurie, don't get upset about the fat thing. It is just a word. I myself am Pooh sized, oh heck I'm FAT. It is just a word. Love yourself.:)

[xtinkerbell84x]

Guest Relations is not supposed to ask for any sort of documentation proving the disability. That is by law. Apparently, Universal Orlando Guest Services have yet to receive that memo because they usually do ask for documentation. I knew a girl with MD and every time she went to Universal, she had to have proof that she was "legally disabled". Meanwhile, I usually travel with a guest in my party who suffers from chronic panic attacks due to a form of agoraphobia (fear of crowds, she hyperventilates and passes out if confined to an enclosed space full of people for a prolonged period of time) and they tell her that she has to suck it up and deal with it or get proper documentation. There have also been issues as DAK Guest Relations with the aforementioned member in my party and refusal for issuing of a GAC card. She's even had one issued to her on her previous visit and when she went to DAK GR to get a new one (because that's what she was told at all 3 of the other parks, was that she could just bring in one from her prior visit and they'd reissue her a new one) the DAK GR CM asked her why she needed it and then refused to give her one. Management was of no help, because there was one standing next to the CM and agreed. Not only that, she was pretty much told that if she had this medical issue, then she shouldn't even be at the parks. We left and went to MK and explained what happened, and they reissued the GAC without any problem.

I can understand being wary of those just wanting to abuse the privilege. But unfortunately, the guests that suffer most of the time are the ones who actually require a GAC card, while the ones who don't require any sort of special assistance reap the benefits.

[SkipperGordon]

Guest Relations is not supposed to ask for any sort of documentation proving the disability. That is by law. Apparently, Universal Orlando Guest Services have yet to receive that memo because they usually do ask for documentation.

The reason Universal asks for documentation for GAP passes is because the guests are getting something for free that they would otherwise have to pay for. Since our queues were built after the ADA was passed we are able to accommodate wheelchairs in all of our lines giving guests with wheelchairs -equal access- to the rides. If for some reason our normal accommodation is inadequate for a particular guests (ie: guest with autism is unable to wait in a long line) then we provide them with a GAP pass - which basically amounts to a free express pass. Documentation is required because otherwise they would have to pay $20-$60 for this pass on any given day. We have other passes that are not express passes (Alternate Stair Entry, Family Room Access, Stroller as a Wheelchair, etc.) that do not require documentation and which we use to try to accommodate guests with a variety of disabilities be they permanent or temporary. Unfortunately, many team members choose to treat all of these passes as express passes rather than go to the effort of giving the correct service for each pass. I am not one of those team members. The point of the ADA and our pass system is to provide disabled persons with -equal- not preferential treatment. It's really not all that different than bus companies requiring ADA cards to qualify for free transit.

That being said, I am sorry your friend has had trouble with inconsistencies in guest relations. Unfortunately many disorders that make going to a theme park difficult are not legally covered by the ADA and parks are not required to provide accommodation. Disney is usually very good about providing assistance anyway; but you're basically at the mercy of whoever you encounter in Guest Relations on that particular day. I'd say save the GAP pass next time she gets one and then demand that the park be consistent in their accommodation.

[Anna]

Actually, Guest Services at Universal Studios Orlando does not ask for documentation. All Guest Service coordinators were taught during training that no documentation or proof of disabilities is necessary. We are even told not to look at medical records or notes from doctors (even if the guest offers it) as it could violate HIPAA.

Universal Studios guest services does not even ask what the disability is. They are trained to find out how the guest's special needs can be accommodated. So for example, they don't need to know if your child has cystic fibrosis. They just need to know that he doesn't have the stamina to wait in the heat or in long lines. He might need to use the elevator instead of the stairs at the attractions, or wait in an air-conditioned area, etc.

[xtinkerbell84x]

The reason Universal asks for documentation for GAP passes is because the guests are getting something for free that they would otherwise have to pay for. Since our queues were built after the ADA was passed we are able to accommodate wheelchairs in all of our lines giving guests with wheelchairs -equal access- to the rides. If for some reason our normal accommodation is inadequate for a particular guests (ie: guest with autism is unable to wait in a long line) then we provide them with a GAP pass - which basically amounts to a free express pass. Documentation is required because otherwise they would have to pay $20-$60 for this pass on any given day. We have other passes that are not express passes (Alternate Stair Entry, Family Room Access, Stroller as a Wheelchair, etc.) that do not require documentation and which we use to try to accommodate guests with a variety of disabilities be they permanent or temporary. Unfortunately, many team members choose to treat all of these passes as express passes rather than go to the effort of giving the correct service for each pass. I am not one of those team members. The point of the ADA and our pass system is to provide disabled persons with -equal- not preferential treatment. It's really not all that different than bus companies requiring ADA cards to qualify for free transit.

That being said, I am sorry your friend has had trouble with inconsistencies in guest relations. Unfortunately many disorders that make going to a theme park difficult are not legally covered by the ADA and parks are not required to provide accommodation. Disney is usually very good about providing assistance anyway; but you're basically at the mercy of whoever you encounter in Guest Relations on that particular day. I'd say save the GAP pass next time she gets one and then demand that the park be consistent in their accommodation.

That's fine and dandy about them wanting to ask for proof (which, regardless of whether or not Express is an issue is still illegal because they are not supposed to sit there and basically tell you that if your "supposed" disability requires you to have special accommodations, then you shouldn't be there in the first place...which is what UO Guest Services does) I'm well aware of the different kinds of passes available at Universal. But to deny her even a family room pass, ESPECIALLY in such a manner, is unacceptable. It's one thing to deny her in a polite manner, but to flat out tell her that she shouldn't be at the park in the first place if she has such a problem is WRONG. Unfortunately, when it happened to her, I knew the Guest Services manager on duty and realized that he would've been no help whatsoever, because he was the same lead who left me passed out on the ride platform one night during HHN to continue arguing with a party about putting their souvenir cups in a locker.

...and I'm well aware of the queues being ADA accessible...'cause, you know, I saw the same one every single day for an entire year, so thanks! :)

Actually, Guest Services at Universal Studios Orlando does not ask for documentation. All Guest Service coordinators were taught during training that no documentation or proof of disabilities is necessary. We are even told not to look at medical records or notes from doctors (even if the guest offers it) as it could violate HIPAA.

Universal Studios guest services does not even ask what the disability is. They are trained to find out how the guest's special needs can be accommodated. So for example, they don't need to know if your child has cystic fibrosis. They just need to know that he doesn't have the stamina to wait in the heat or in long lines. He might need to use the elevator instead of the stairs at the attractions, or wait in an air-conditioned area, etc.

I'd like to accept that, and apologize for making the mistake. HOWEVER, I can't do that, considering my party has consistently had issues with Universal Guest Relations requiring documentation. One even told my friend with MD that they were going to "put it in the system and link it with" her annual pass that documentation was presented and that she required it, and of course, nothing. You can sit there and tell me til you're blue in the face that I'm wrong, but I'm telling you exactly what she's encountered, having seen it myself, because when she first told me it happened, I didn't believe her either and told her that they don't ask for documentation. If there are team members who don't and do try to accommodate using their training, then great! However, unfortunately, she has yet to come across one who's willing to help her, rather than tell her that she should turn around and leave because she doesn't belong there. :)

[mechurchlady]

There is a clause in the law that staes that if a provider is offering something above and beyond what other guests get then they can ask for proof of disability.

Since Universal offers a head of the line pass and the disabled guest is getting that same service for free then Universal can ask for proof of disability.

however if Universal is required to provide access and the GAP is the only answer then they cannot ask for proof. They could give a GAP holder a stamped cardstock with a time and have the guest come back later like I did iwth Tower of Terror at DCA. I did not get head of the line rights but I did have to come back later. It was easier than standing in line and I got to potty break, snack, and see the animation building.

[Anna]

I'd like to accept that, and apologize for making the mistake. HOWEVER, I can't do that, considering my party has consistently had issues with Universal Guest Relations requiring documentation.

I'm not calling you or your friend a liar. I am just stating the policy. I know because I work for GS and am also a trainer there. If someone does ask for documentation from you or your friend again, please ask to speak to the supervisor. It is against the policy.


Since Universal offers a head of the line pass and the disabled guest is getting that same service for free then Universal can ask for proof of disability.



They may be able to do that legally but it is against company policy. Ask to speak to a supervisor if anyone is asking you for proof of medical issues.

[Anna]

I meant to edit this into the last post but i guess I missed the timeframe to edit in.

You friend with MD: if they put the info into her Annual pass they should be able to scan the pass each time she goes and re-issue the GAP. I can't imagine what that wasn't taken care of. She shouldn't have to go through that each time she comes to the park. :(

And for the friend with agoraphobia, the only pass that would work for her would be the family room GAP. The express GAP would not help her as those lines can also become crowded. So to meet her needs, the family room would be offered that way she would not be subjected to crowded lines.

[Goofyernmost]

Normally, I am a strong advocate for legitimate needs and requests, but in the case of the individual that has the "fear of crowds" problem. Give me a break. Is the next step...clear the parks, I want to go in and I can't handle other people being there? Some disabilities are just that...disabilities. If they didn't hinder one's ability then they wouldn't be disabilities would they?

If a person has that problem yet insists on going someplace that is crowded, oh well, I guess that was pretty predicable. And because of the nature it is also very suspect. Would someone that really, really has that problem ever go to a place with large crowds. I think common sense has to enter these decisions. Unfortunately, ADA doesn't understand or even know the definition of common sense. To them it is participate at all costs, even if it kills you.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

Thats why some small stores had to close there doors here. A lawyer would send letters telling them to comply with the ADA or face a multi-million dollar lawsuit (oh, and send him some money to settle out of court!).

The problem was, the stores were in historical buildings and they were not allowed to modify them without losing their lease.

some stores had been in business for thirty to forty years or more. Some had been in the same family for several generations.

any other persons doing that, it would be called extortion.

Do you think that a lot of ill feelings were created toward the ADA and the greedy lawyer? you bet!

Do you think that the ADA must be re-written to protect from abuse?

I know there are a LOT of people who are getting fed up with this type of abuse, hiding behind an act that was supposed to improve life for those with disabilities.

[Lasolimu]

Thats why some small stores had to close there doors here. A lawyer would send letters telling them to comply with the ADA or face a multi-million dollar lawsuit (oh, and send him some money to settle out of court!).

The problem was, the stores were in historical buildings and they were not allowed to modify them without losing their lease.

some stores had been in business for thirty to forty years or more. Some had been in the same family for several generations.

any other persons doing that, it would be called extortion.

Do you think that a lot of ill feelings were created toward the ADA and the greedy lawyer? you bet!

Do you think that the ADA must be re-written to protect from abuse?

I know there are a LOT of people who are getting fed up with this type of abuse, hiding behind an act that was supposed to improve life for those with disabilities.

That kind of thing is really funny when the building is ADA compliant and they never checked in the first place. I don't remember what town it was, but a lawyer visited for couple days and sent a couple hundred notices to that effect and the businesses were ADA compliant. Some of them didn't want to deal with him so they paid, some fought and probably won I don't know how it turned out.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

That kind of thing is really funny when the building is ADA compliant and they never checked in the first place. I don't remember what town it was, but a lawyer visited for couple days and sent a couple hundred notices to that effect and the businesses were ADA compliant. Some of them didn't want to deal with him so they paid, some fought and probably won I don't know how it turned out.

Well, some did have ramps built outside the stores, but the lawyer is confined to a wheelchair, so he would go to the store and have an assistant video him trying to get in the door, go down the aisles, etc.

He would raise the issue that they were not compliant under ADA because he could not enter and shop as easy as others.

One judge threw out some of the lawsuits as unfounded, but he just goes to the next jurisdiction and re-files.

[Lasolimu]

Well, some did have ramps built outside the stores, but the lawyer is confined to a wheelchair, so he would go to the store and have an assistant video him trying to get in the door, go down the aisles, etc.

He would raise the issue that they were not compliant under ADA because he could not enter and shop as easy as others.

One judge threw out some of the lawsuits as unfounded, but he just goes to the next jurisdiction and re-files.

Maybe he's looking for people to rush out at the sight of him and essentially lay down in the mud for him, but I don't think that is anywhere in there.

They guy I was talking about had nothing to even attempt to prove his claims and he must have just taken the entire time he was there just taking down names of businesses to send letter to.

[hobie16]

Thats why some small stores had to close there doors here. A lawyer would send letters telling them to comply with the ADA or face a multi-million dollar lawsuit (oh, and send him some money to settle out of court!).There was a guy on Kauai working that scam. Last we heard he'd moved to LA for more fertile fields of opportunity. Look Out!!

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

There was a guy on Kauai working that scam. Last we heard he'd moved to LA for more fertile fields of opportunity. Look Out!!

This guy was working the San Diego area. The slimeball was slapped down a couple of times, but keeps doing it again!

[Syndrome]

When I lived in IL, the spa in our town had that crap pulled on it. It was located in an old house, as were most of the businesses in that district. The house was a bungalow so of course it had stairs at the front and back door. A troublemaker who didn't even want to actually use their services sued. They paid tall bucks to put in a ramp...really, really tall bucks since the house and lot were not set up to accommodate a ramp with the proper dimensions. Do you think they ever actually got any wheelchair using clients? Literally not one in the years they remained open (they closed down a couple years later after getting ripped off by a contractor, but that's another story).

[dhcalva]

For the last several years that my family and I have been going to Disney, we've had to put my father in a wheelchair as he just can't walk very much any more. It was so bad that he was using a walker to go from his bed to the bathroom. Forunately, now, he's only using a cane to get around the house and around hotel rooms. However, he can not walk around the resorts or parks any more.

That being said, I'm fat. Yes Fat. not husky, big boned, biscuitious, or tubby. Fat. Part of that is that I like to eat. Another part is that I have a desk job.

Last September I injured my knee. Bad enough that I missed several days work because I couldn't even walk from a car parked at the door in to my office. Even now I still walk with a severe limp.

December was the first time I've ever used an ECV (or wheelchair for that matter) anyplace.

When we went on vacation this year, the first day at WDW and in the MK, I managed to walk the entire park, though I was in enough pain by the end of the evening that I had to take a vicodin, neither Excedrine or Naproxin Sodium were doing the job.

The rest of the trip I used an ECV to get around the parks, though I did park it outside to go on rides. The only rides that I even took the ECV through the queue on were ones that had LONG queues, Killimanjaro Safari for example. The only attractions that I took the ECV into were 'shows', such as The Country Bears and Festival of the Lion King. The rides/attractions that I accessed through the handicap queue, we were taking my father on anyway.

I will probably be doing the same thing this year. Using the ECV to get around the park itself saves my knee for the attractions themselves and helping my father in and out of the restrooms. And lets face it, the ECVs are somewhat of a ride in and of themselves. I found riding around World Showcase on one quite enjoyable. :)

Is there any problem is using the ECV in this manner?

[DragonFox98]

Hey, guys! I must say, I originally started reading because I love hearing your SG stories, but this thread has really helped a lot.

xtinkerbell84x, I can totally relate to your friend: My DH is diagnosed with agoraphobia; he has a fear of crowds and being out amongst people. That being said, prior to this affecting him, we used to go to Disney all the time. It has been two years since we went and I am planning a trip for late Sept/early Oct. Now, we do have trip insurance, should he decide he just can't go. However, he wants his children (and wife) to have this vacation and is willing to hurt a bit in order for it to happen.

I was already planning to bring documentation with me in order to procure a GAC for him. I have letters from both his psychiatrist and therapist as to his conditions and limitations (for those in the know, his GAF is 50). We do not plan to bypass lines if there is a wait, we mainly want to have it so he can be seated near an exit in shows (such as Muppet 3D) or, when we go to meet the fairies, see if he can wait in the back (where the exit actually is), while I stay in line with the kids.

Goofynermost, your comments were a bit hurtful to someone who has watched her beloved struggle with this issue for over a year now. We don't know what happened; he had a massive panic attack one day that put him in the hospital (I thought he was having a heart attack) and now he rarely leaves home (only when accompanied by me) and has cotinually had smaller panic attacks throughout the year. If you do not live with a particular disability, please don't judge others. As I said, we're not looking to be in the front of all the lines, only to be able to be "apart" from others during shows. We believe he'll do okay in the queues because I will be there with him. And we even have a plan for when we are riding the thrill rides and he has to wait for us.

Also....I have lurked for a long time on the board and feel like I know you all. Can I just give a shout-out to Churchy and the marsupials??? (and can I ask for you guys when we visit?):)

[BRWombat]

Hey, guys!... Also....I have lurked for a long time on the board and feel like I know you all. Can I just give a shout-out to Churchy and the marsupials??? (and can I ask for you guys when we visit?):)Well, Churchy is, shall we say, inactive on the board, and you can ask for me when you visit, but only when visiting the Dallas area... other than that, thanks for the shout out! And...

:welcome: to :sgt: from :wallaby: and :wombat:!!! :D: :D: :D:

[joanna71985]

Is there any problem is using the ECV in this manner?

I don't think there is a problem. :)

[Syndrome]

{hugs} to you, Dragonfox. I am a professional therapist so I know what you mean and how quickly a condition like that can manifest itself. That reminds me of my former boss's brother-in-law. He was in the Army and had never had any issues...then one day they found him huddled in a fetal position in his bunk, and he has has problems ever since. It's scary how things can change in the blink of an eye, but I'm glad your DH is getting help and getting out and about.

Is he gettings meds from the psychiastrist? Xanax can be very helpful and the good thing is, it can be used situationally vs. having to be taken every day (although some people do that too). I have a fear of flying that was triggered by a specific incident. I know I could try to handle it cognitively, but a mega-dose of Xanax is so much easier and makes flying so much for pleasant for me and all those around me.

[crash]

As a new Cast Member in the Monorails I get to see a lot of people who like myself hide their disability. I was in the USAF for 5 years almost 6 when I was injured in Afghanistan. I have both my License plate and VA service connected disability ID card. However I do my best not to use it. I prefer not to park in Handicap parking because I know that there are people out there who are more deserving of it than myself. I have an 80% rating from the VA and have my placard for my truck. When ever I go to the park as a guest at WDW I do not get the GAC card because I have a problem with people seeing someone who appears normal using one. I know that many families take advantage of them because they have learned how to cheat the system and take advantage of what people really need. One my latest trip to the park I met up with a few of my friends who are disabled. I went and had one of my friends get one since she lost both of her legs while deployed. She tries her best to walk as much as possible but there are times where she cant. while we were in line for the briar patch log ride (after 3 hrs in the park) she needed to sit since her legs were hurting. We entered through the wheel chair line, when we reached the ride a SG that had waited a while in line yelled at the CM for allowing us to board before him. Seeing the cast member with the red earning my ears badge on I walked through the line held up my VA ID card and yelled at the top of my voice you see this card this means I fought in Afghanistan and was injured so that you could stand here and whine when we come back after each and everyone of us fought and lost something or someone over there. At which point each member of our group of 6 got up and took off the prosthstetic's that they were wearing. My friend took off both of her legs and held them up.( I dont have one I am just missing a few key parts from inside my body) I then went on to explain to him that some people try to hide the disability because of people like you. I then went back to the log got in and went on the ride. after returning to the load/unload and walking out we started to go to another ride when the man ran up to us and said he was sorry. I know that this doesn't happen often but I know that most people find out that the only reason people enter in those points is because we actually have a disability. I know that the ADA does allow companies to ask about a disability and to ask for documentation as long as it is phrased correctly. I think Disney could do it as long as they do it the same way Six Flags does it. The phrase they use is "May I see a form or other documentation so that I can make sure we help you get the most out of your stay with us today. This will also allow us to ensure your safety on all of our rides and in the park." As soon as I find the Actual ADA guidelines on asking guests this question I will post them here and a link so that someone might be able to approach management with it. This way we can stop any and all abuse of the system. Sorry for the long rant but it angers me when people with out a disability abuse the system set-up to help those that actualy need it.

[felinefan]

Good comeback! You sure showed him! Since he came back and apologized, I guess that doesn't make him a stupid guest, just a poorly informed one. Real SGs would've come up with a stupid comeback.

To you and your buddies--thank you for serving!

[Whazzup]

:thankyou: for your sacrifices.

[joanna71985]

Crash, thank you so much for serving in the USAF.

[Syndrome]

Another big thank-you for your service to our country. My dad was Army (WW II vet) and my brother was a Marine, so I have a deep respect and admiration for those who serve and protect America.

[Cheshire Figment]

I am very familiar with the GAC and related policies.

For those really interested, or who think they may need to get one, I would suggest going over to www.disboards.com and go to the disABILITIES Forum, which is about #17 or so down the list. On the first page of that forum one of the stickys is the disABILITIES FAQs. Post #6 discusses the GAC.

However, we actively discourage (usually by PM) people from discussing specific stamps or anything about being able to bypass lines under certain circumstances. People on this board are specially aware that many SGs will do almost anything for the "me first" concept, which is why in the disABILITIES Forum we edit or cut down a lot of the discussion.

And, Syndrome, I see you on several forums at DisBoards but have never noticed you either in disABILITIES or the disABILITIES Community Subforum; you might be interested (professionally) in some of those discussions, especially in the Community subforum.

[Yeti Chaser]

I know that the ADA does allow companies to ask about a disability and to ask for documentation as long as it is phrased correctly. I think Disney could do it as long as they do it the same way Six Flags does it. The phrase they use is "May I see a form or other documentation so that I can make sure we help you get the most out of your stay with us today. This will also allow us to ensure your safety on all of our rides and in the park." As soon as I find the Actual ADA guidelines on asking guests this question I will post them here and a link so that someone might be able to approach management with it. This way we can stop any and all abuse of the system. Sorry for the long rant but it angers me when people with out a disability abuse the system set-up to help those that actualy need it.

Crash: I applaude your courage and thank you for your service to your country. As for GAC abuse, it is there and the guests who stretch the truth to get one have only themselves to blame. Now as for asking for doumentation for proof of disability, that can be construed as a violation of HIPAA guidelines and patient confidentiality.

NAMASTE

[Syndrome]

And, Syndrome, I see you on several forums at DisBoards but have never noticed you either in disABILITIES or the disABILITIES Community Subforum; you might be interested (professionally) in some of those discussions, especially in the Community subforum.
I actually lurk there quite frequently because much of the information is invaluable for my clients (both counseling and travel clients). I only tend to post when someone asks about hearing and fireworks, since I have hyperacusis myself. But you're right, the information is fascinating to me from a professional standpoint. It's a real "slice of life" on what so many people deal with everyday.

[Syndrome]

Crash: I applaude your courage and thank you for your service to your country. As for GAC abuse, it is there and the guests who stretch the truth to get one have only themselves to blame. Now as for asking for doumentation for proof of disability, that can be construed as a violation of HIPAA guidelines and patient confidentiality.

NAMASTE
Actually, it's not a violation of HIPAA. That's a very common misconception. HIPAA regulates medical professionals, but a patient is free to distribute their own medical information to anyone they choose. Voluntarily giving a letter from their doctor or related information to someone else is perfectly allowable, and that person is free to read it. If a doctor sent a letter without patient consent, THAT would be a violation of patient confidentiality.

[marcusgalen]

Um, just to add my two semi-lurking cents in...

My dad was a Leut. Col. in the Marine Corps, and served as a pilot during the Vietnam conflict among other duties.

He, as were others, was exposed to Agent Orange, and has developed a heart problem, in his case, AF, Atrial Fibrilation, I believe is the term. Basically, his heart will occasionally stop beating in sync. He's 100% VA disabled, with plates and everything.

We've been to WDW at least 3 times in the past two years, for a few days at a time.

He's NEVER considered the GAC, for the same reasons as mentioned above. He feels there are other people who deserve it more than him. He'll sit and rest, enjoy people watching, then get back into lines when he feels better.

Ah, and...Crash? I speak for my dad, I know, when I thank you for your sacrifice. He talked to the USMC about re-entering the Corps from retirement, to help, but was told his heart would make it impossible. Still gripes about it.

So, a Toast to you and your other friends, Crash. :winetost: Fly High, I believe is the motto.

[Goofyernmost]

Goofynermost, your comments were a bit hurtful to someone who has watched her beloved struggle with this issue for over a year now. We don't know what happened; he had a massive panic attack one day that put him in the hospital (I thought he was having a heart attack) and now he rarely leaves home (only when accompanied by me) and has cotinually had smaller panic attacks throughout the year. If you do not live with a particular disability, please don't judge others. As I said, we're not looking to be in the front of all the lines, only to be able to be "apart" from others during shows. We believe he'll do okay in the queues because I will be there with him. And we even have a plan for when we are riding the thrill rides and he has to wait for us.

I'm sorry that you see it that way. I am not without sympathy for someone with a problem like that what I am saying is that when one has that sort of problem they must adjust to that situation. It is not up to the rest of the world to adjust around it. Within reason, yes!

My comment was made because it seems obvious that if you have a problem with crowds, going where crowds are seems less than thought out to me. I have an anxiety with large wooden roller coasters, so guess what...I don't go on them. Am I missing out on something? Probably, but it is what it is. I have to accept that I cannot do it for my own health and happiness.

In your individual case, and each one is individual, I don't understand why anyone would subject themselves to such discomfort. Disney is great, but not a lot of fun if you are hurting. It is commendable that he would attempt it for the benefit of his family, but there is really very little that can be done to eliminate crowds in a place that is famous for it's crowds.

Sorry if I offended you.

[scpergj]

Um, just to add my two semi-lurking cents in...

My dad was a Leut. Col. in the Marine Corps, and served as a pilot during the Vietnam conflict among other duties.

He, as were others, was exposed to Agent Orange, and has developed a heart problem, in his case, AF, Atrial Fibrilation, I believe is the term. Basically, his heart will occasionally stop beating in sync. He's 100% VA disabled, with plates and everything.

We've been to WDW at least 3 times in the past two years, for a few days at a time.

He's NEVER considered the GAC, for the same reasons as mentioned above. He feels there are other people who deserve it more than him. He'll sit and rest, enjoy people watching, then get back into lines when he feels better.

Ah, and...Crash? I speak for my dad, I know, when I thank you for your sacrifice. He talked to the USMC about re-entering the Corps from retirement, to help, but was told his heart would make it impossible. Still gripes about it.

So, a Toast to you and your other friends, Crash. :winetost: Fly High, I believe is the motto.


marcusgalen

My dad was Air Force during the Agent Orange days - he was aircrew on C-130's, and actually handled the stuff with his bare hands. He too had heart problems, as well as liver problems, lung problems, pretty much everything but cancer. He too had a handicap tag, and even rode an electric scooter -and like your dad never asked for a GAC or anything like that...it just wasn't his style. He had over 50 heart procedures before he died in 2003 - three months before I graduated from college. He said the Corps was way ahead of the other branches of the service when it comes to taking care of it's people - especially where Agent Orange was concerned.

Thank your dad for his service - I work with several retired Marine officers - including my boss, all of whom also fought in Viet Nam. They are pretty tough - and always the guys you want on your side!

[turkeyham]

My friend's dad was in the NAVY. He was exposed to agent orange also. He went to the hospital a few weeks ago and thought he was having a heart attack. The agent orange made him stiff as a board and he can no longer move. Parolized all over. He turns 80 on Sunday. :(

[Heavenleigh]

Speaking as a mother of a autistic child. She is only 4 so I use her stroller as a wheelchair. Does she need it all the time no she doesn't. However when she gets to crowded by people or stops moving she begins to hit kick and grab anything thats around her so the stroller is more of a way to keep her in a safe spot and her away from guests. She also has the GAE because she NEEDS it. Before I found out about that pass we maybe did one ride the entire day because the waits were to long... and explaining that to a autistic child... not fun.

I do agree thou when my family comes to town and we are a part of 4 or more the other people do wait in the regular line. Because the pass is for MY child not the 100 people with me who are just trying to get out of waiting in line.

I also think people and families who have someone with a disabilty would have NO problem having paperwork with them to prove that their child or whoever has a disability. My child looks typical until you see her start walking on tiptoes or with her headphones on to block out loud noises or flapping her arms.

I also think if you CAN wait in lines you should because is only fair. I WISH my child could wait in lines. I would be doing cartwheels at disney If I had a typical child and didn't need the GAE.

As for people who get wheelchairs and makeup illness to get ahead of lines... well hopefully karma's a b#$%h!!!

[munch704]

I think this is my very first post:eek:

so many things i'd like to say on this topic. I have been to Disney aprox 30 times in the last 9 years. For the first 15 visits or so it was myself, hubby, oldest daughter and son. When my youngest was born she had her first trip at 5 months old. Life was great, I love Disney as does the rest of the family. Little one in stroller off we went.

At future trips littlest was getting bigger, hubby has major back issues and stroller not allowed everywhere but we made the best of it. On one particular trip when she was about 3 we had gotten the Fantasmic dinner pkg. When we went to enter (entrance towards front of park) they told us that stroller not allowed. I tried to explain that little one unable to walk (she has CP amongst other things) and was there anything we could do-I really wasn't going to be able to carry her on that walk. they said no. we left.

since then i found out about stroller as wheelchair and it has been wonderful. My husband has also since been forced to use a wheelchair on many occassions. It bothers him tremendously to be in the w/c, I have to yell at him to use it, as he doesn't "look" injured and is rather young (38). He has spinal stenosis/6 degenerative disks.
However I find it amusing that people get upset when we go in a different way. Just because we get to go in a different way doesn't mean we get on faster. Last month we went for SWW and while having a fast pass for Toy Story once we got in line the non stair way we had a 45 minute wait. I saw people at the end of the regular (non fast pass) line board before us.

GAC is great if used right and not abused. In January we went for our daughters WISH trip (not MAW) we had 2 in chairs (daughter & hubby) I just had back surgery in November and my oldest was wearing knee brace. The only one physically "normal" was my 11 yo boy. I know I'm probably amongst the majority on this site but I'd say I'm in the minority whereas I didn't care about "entitlements" we did what we could, rested when we had to, and went with it. Yeah we had looks, yeah i heard comments when my youngest went to get Little Einstein autographs and the CM let her go in the exit. (we had wish shirts on) While she was offered to "cut" in line it took her forever to get comfortable to meet them.

Sorry for the long story. I guess it could be summed up by saying GAC (even with alt entrance) is not always quicker. Thanks for letting my enjoy this forum. I've had many conversations with CM's over SGT and have even sent some here.

[joanna71985]

Welcome to SGT munch704! Glad to have you here. :)

[Whazzup]

Hi Munch, and welcome. Love your name.
Chocolate covered pretzels, anyone?? :D:

[DragonFox98]

Goofyernmost,

Sorry if I came off overly harsh....I am VERY overprotectice of my hubby. I love him dearly and absolutely hate to see him suffer. He's doing better and that's why we agreed to the trip; both his therapist and psychiatrist think it is in his best interests to go and "brave the world". That is another reason we decided to stay on property as well - I can dump his butt off at the resort if he isn't feeling well. ;)

No, really. I love my hubby and if he can't seem to take the parks one day (or many), then he goes back to be calm in the room and I take MIL and the kids and see what I can accomplish by my lonesome.

Have a great day everyone!!!

Oh, and welcome, munch!

[BRWombat]

I think this is my very first post:eek:...And a good first post it was!

:welcome: to :sgt: from :wallaby: and :wombat:!!! :D: :D: :D:

[SueOKW]

Here's my GAC kid. He thinks WDW is the greatest place in the world. For anyone who cheats and lies there are hundreds that couldn't go to the park without it.
http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j63/slipkid99/kev250spt.jpg

[felinefan]

What a handsome little guy! Look at him, he's loving the attention!

[DisneyMom]

Here's my GAC kid. He thinks WDW is the greatest place in the world. For anyone who cheats and lies there are hundreds that couldn't go to the park without it.
http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j63/slipkid99/kev250spt.jpg

Cool Picture! He looks very happy:) I love his red hair!


(and now my husband wants to go to WDW;))

[rebelrebel]

Here's my GAC kid. He thinks WDW is the greatest place in the world. For anyone who cheats and lies there are hundreds that couldn't go to the park without it.
http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j63/slipkid99/kev250spt.jpg

Wow he looks so happy, what a lovely smile :)

[joanna71985]

Great picture! He looks so happy. :)

[Doctor McKey]

I was driving a Concourse to EPCOT trip on the monorail one evening… I had a grandmother with her Grand-daughter on one side of me and a mom and daughter on the other. The mom, who had never been to Disney, asked me if their was any tip on how to get the most of their trip.. I started to explain fast passes to her when the Grand Mother ( not related ) told her of these wonderful things called GAC cards that Disney gives out to people with “disabilities”… she further went on to tell her that she goes to GR all the time to get them and just tells them that their grand daughter has “insert condition” and they write her a “golden ticket”….

I about hit the E-Stop when I heard her say that…. I should have made her walk the plank… her grand child was not disabled in any way…


The Doctor

[delsdad]

I was driving a Concourse to EPCOT trip on the monorail one evening… I had a grandmother with her Grand-daughter on one side of me and a mom and daughter on the other. The mom, who had never been to Disney, asked me if their was any tip on how to get the most of their trip.. I started to explain fast passes to her when the Grand Mother ( not related ) told her of these wonderful things called GAC cards that Disney gives out to people with “disabilities”… she further went on to tell her that she goes to GR all the time to get them and just tells them that their grand daughter has “insert condition” and they write her a “golden ticket”….

I about hit the E-Stop when I heard her say that…. I should have made her walk the plank… her grand child was not disabled in any way…


The Doctor

Seems as good a time as any to practice an emergency evac of the cab.
Over water !
:twisted: Ladies First !! :twisted:

[darph nader]

Seems as good a time as any to practice an emergency evac of the cab.
Over water !
:twisted: Ladies First !! :twisted:

That is cold.


I LIKE IT!

[hobie16]

Seems as good a time as any to practice an emergency evac of the cab.
Over water !
Women and children first!! (Hold the kid back)

[Zazu]

I was driving a Concourse to EPCOT trip on the monorail one evening… I had a grandmother with her Grand-daughter on one side of me and a mom and daughter on the other. The mom, who had never been to Disney, asked me if their was any tip on how to get the most of their trip.. I started to explain fast passes to her when the Grand Mother ( not related ) told her of these wonderful things called GAC cards that Disney gives out to people with “disabilities”… she further went on to tell her that she goes to GR all the time to get them and just tells them that their grand daughter has “insert condition” and they write her a “golden ticket”….
Last time I overheard a guest giving that advice, I interrupted and explained, "The one problem with that plan is that if you're caught, and your child *doesn't* have a disability, you could get banned from Disney theme parks for the rest of your life!"

Suddenly one of the two parties decided to get out of the handicap waiting area and get in the regular line.

No guilt here. They cheat -- I lie. Just balancing the karma. :D:

[turkeyham]

A few years ago me and my sister were in line for Pirates. There was a group of teenagers on the other side with one teen in a wheel chair. All teens jumped over the railing and jumped into a boat. When we were getting off the boat, security was waiting and the girls were escourted out of the park with Anaheim police. Yup, they were fakers and they stole the chair from another attraction.:mad:

[hobie16]

It's amazing how, in such a big park, word travels so fast. :D:

[DisneyMom]

We went to DLR yesterday with my friend who needs a wheelchair. Despite it being the
most crowded I've seen it since Christmastime, the CMs who assisted us were
superb, especially the ones who carefully and cheerfully secured her chair on the little white bus there and the tram on the way back. We ended up going on one ride as we only stayed for a few hours, but I saw a lot of people (teenagers) who made me wonder about their disability. I heard one teenager on a phone saying, "He ran back to get us a wheelchair!":mad:

[SueOKW]

thanks for all the nice compliments - - i love that picture too. it was a super special moment that i'll never forget.

I am going to start using that line about "banned for life" whenever I can - it's a good one.

Don't let the nut jobs bring you down! :)

[LittleDollClaudia]

I admit that when I take my son to Disneyland in July, I may get one. He is autistic, but I always gauge if we will need it on certain things or not.

He can wait a little while without getting frustrated, so I don't use it unless absolutely necessary.

[Big Wallaby]

No guilt here. They cheat -- I lie. Just balancing the karma. :D:Isn't our job to promote the storyline? And in this case, I do believe the storyline is as you say. So you're not even lying.

Yeah.

I admit that when I take my son to Disneyland in July, I may get one. He is autistic, but I always gauge if we will need it on certain things or not.

He can wait a little while without getting frustrated, so I don't use it unless absolutely necessary.But then, those who need it don't relish the chance to abuse it.

The one time that I believe I should have got a GAC was with Princess Susi and Raffles. We went to GR at one of the parks and they would not give us one for them.

I almost feel that we should have lied about the situation, as you can get a GAC for less. Okay, "less" is not the word I mean, but you get the point.

Oh, watch out, this Wallaby is growling and snarling now.

Where ARE Princess Susi and Raffle, anyway?

[DisneyMom]

I admit that when I take my son to Disneyland in July, I may get one. He is autistic, but I always gauge if we will need it on certain things or not.

He can wait a little while without getting frustrated, so I don't use it unless absolutely necessary.

I would recommend it, based on long lines I saw Tuesday. I am thinking may not return 'til September when things will hopefully calm down.

BW, I will let Ralph and Susi know they are missed around here!:(

[turkeyham]

My sister is a LVN in Poway. The family she takes care of, the middle son has (sp) autism and they strap him into a strollerso that he does not get up and runs off.

Dsneymom, what causes the kids to scream and cry on Pirates and It's a Small World? Can some sounds make an autism child re-act in a different way? Let me know.

[DisneyMom]

My sister is a LVN in Poway. The family she takes care of, the middle son has (sp) autism and they strap him into a strollerso that he does not get up and runs off.

Dsneymom, what causes the kids to scream and cry on Pirates and It's a Small World? Can some sounds make an autism child re-act in a different way? Let me know.

Wow, that could be a number of things.....
Fear of water
loud noises/water splashing(any sound, un-noticeable to the rest of us, could be irritating to someone on the spectrum)
Too many different sounds/activities/lack of predictability at once
CAMERA FLASHES GOING OFF (my son complained for a good 10 minutes after getting flashed in the eyes in the Indy queue last Tuesday)
Wanting to get out of the boat to touch something!
Not being able to tell if something they see is real or not on Pirates (I HATED
the skeletons and fire on POTC first time I rode about age 7)
Small World Song (played endlessly, same effect as waterboarding!:eek:)

[hobie16]

Small World Song (played endlessly, same effect as waterboarding!:eek:)
It's not just autistic kids that feel that way. :D: On the other hand it's a great place to take a nap.