As of January 1, 2019, we have closed our forums. This is a decision we did not come to lightly, but it is necessary. The software our forums run on is just too out-of-date and it poses a significant security risk. The server software itself must be updated, and it cannot be without removing the forums.
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There are other changes as well.
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It's time to move on and move forward.
PassPorter is a small business, and for many years it supported our family. But the world changed, print books took a backseat to the Internet, and for a long time now it has been unable to make ends meet. We've had to find new ways to support our family, which means new careers and less and less time available to devote to our first baby, PassPorter.
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(I think I may have posted this in the wrong place, so I'm reposting)
I have problems with both of my knees due to osteoarthritis and torn meniscus, especially climbing up and down stairs. I will not be using a wheelchair or ECV since WDW has so many benches to take a rest, if I need one. When we go to one of the many shows or attractions (like Toy Story Mania) at WDW if I could avoid climbing stairs, and would be allowed to sit in the handicap rows that would be most helpful. Do I need to get a GAC for our trip? That's all that I think I may need the GAC for. šoš
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I would say, yes you should get one. If you don't actually need it, you don't have to show it to a CM. But at least, if you discover that you really do need it ... it'll be there, ready to go.
I get one and ask for alternate entrances to avoid steps. I know at the Beauty and the Beast show we were allowed to sit the one the front rows so i could avoid the steps. same was true of the Stunt car show.
Since you won't be using a wheelchair or ECV, I would say get one. Mobility devices tend to signal the CMs that you need a special entrance, no stairs, etc.
My husband uses an ECV, but I use a cane, mostly for stability. At TSMM, the CM intercepted me in line to direct me away from the stairs. At Fantasmic, I asked if there was a place to sit that didn't involve more than one or two steps, and they seated us in the reflective captioning area, one step down. But rather than count on the observational skills of the CMs, I would get the card so they'll know what your needs are.
I get one and ask for alternate entrances to avoid steps. I know at the Beauty and the Beast show we were allowed to sit the one the front rows so i could avoid the steps. same was true of the Stunt car show.
For Beauty and the Beast, the back row is handicapped seating and does not require any steps.
Just so you are aware, going down to the front row involves going down a number of steep switchback ramps, and back up them to exit.
Many people with knee problems find that steep ramps are as hard for them as steps because of the angle.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Disney Franatic
(I think I may have posted this in the wrong place, so I'm reposting)
I have problems with both of my knees due to osteoarthritis and torn meniscus, especially climbing up and down stairs. I will not be using a wheelchair or ECV since WDW has so many benches to take a rest, if I need one. When we go to one of the many shows or attractions (like Toy Story Mania) at WDW if I could avoid climbing stairs, and would be allowed to sit in the handicap rows that would be most helpful. Do I need to get a GAC for our trip? That's all that I think I may need the GAC for. šoš
As others mentioned, without a Guest Assistance Card, the CMs won't be able to see you have an issue with stairs.
I would suggest taking along the phone numbers of at least one of the off-site ECV rental companies. The average guest at WDW walks at least 3-6 miles per day and some of the lines are a long distance to walk - for example, the line for Soarin' is over 1/4 mile to walk in and another 1/4 mile to walk back to the ride entrance.
Even though it may seem like there are many benches, we had noticed as far back as 6 years ago, when my FIL died, that there seemed to be less and less benches. On our trips since then without him, we have noticed that even more of his favorite benches are no longer there.
So, it would be good to have the numbers of rental companies ready in case you need one.
Last edited by SueM loves WDW; 01-19-2013 at 07:18 PM..
Reason: Typos
[QUOTE=SueM loves WDW;4098336]For Beauty and the Beast, the back row is handicapped seating and does not require any steps.
Just so you are aware, going down to the front row involves going down a number of steep switchback ramps, and back up them to exit.
Many people with knee problems find that steep ramps are as hard for them as steps because of the angle.
The CM said the last row was for people at the parks with folks in ECVs and wheel chairs, since we had no such in our group, i didn't qualify to sit there. I'm sure you're right about the ramp, i just don't remember it being anything but one long ramp down on the east side. .
seems that not all CMs take people in the same way, however it was consistent that i wasn't allowed to use the benches that were allocated for the areas for EVC and wheelchairs. they were for people accompanying folks with EVC and wheelchairs.
I'm going to add my 2 cents: I agree with everyone else.
Go ahead and get it, telling them what sort of assistance you might need (no stairs, place to sit to wait instead of standing in a large queue, etc.).
Then, if you don't need it, don't worry about it. The problem isn't with having it and not using it, but with needing it and not having it (and then having to go all the way to Guest Services to pick one up). Remember - you only need to get it once, at one park, and it's good for your entire stay and for all parks.
I'm going to add my 2 cents: I agree with everyone else.
Go ahead and get it, telling them what sort of assistance you might need (no stairs, place to sit to wait instead of standing in a large queue, etc.).
Then, if you don't need it, don't worry about it. The problem isn't with having it and not using it, but with needing it and not having it (and then having to go all the way to Guest Services to pick one up). Remember - you only need to get it once, at one park, and it's good for your entire stay and for all parks.
Agree with all, however with regards to the bolded above - there are no guarantees to be provided a place to sit while waiting in lines. Very few queues have benches and those that do will not require the seating be vacated for anyone - first come first serve regardless of need. Disney's response to a need to sit in line is to use a wheelchair or ECV.
OP should definitely request a stamp to avoid stairs and slow moving walkways. I also second the idea of considering an ECV - park it occasionally if you don't wish to ride all day, but you'll have it when needed as there is a LOT of walking.
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