a few questions...

[mom2morgan]

I have Ulcerative Colitis, and am concerned about being in line and having to make a break for it to use the washroom. Some of the folks on the Vacation board (thanks for sending me over here!) suggested that a GAC pass may be helpful. They say what it will do is work sort of like a fastpass...if the wait is 30 minutes, it would get me a return slip to come back 30 minutes later and go directly on through the fast pass lane. Am I understanding that correctly? if so, does it also include the other members of my family (we are 4). I'm thinking it must or I'd be riding alone and at a different time from them all the time..... If I DO decide to go this route, how do I get a GAC? Do I have to arrange anything in advance? Do I bring a note from my doctor? The whole thing makes me a little growly since I'm not used to seeking extra "help" and it's kind of a "not visible to others" condition so I can imagine the looks *eye roll* Although maybe others in line would just assume it is a fast pass...

[faline]

Here's the response someone on the mom's panel provided when asked about guest assistance cards - while the situation is somewhat different (This is in response to a child with a disabiliyt) than your issues, the process should be essentially the same.

Each of those struggles are familiar to me, Sherri. Based on my personal experience in dealing with some of those same behaviors, you shouldn't have any trouble obtaining a Guest Assistance Card. To do so, you'll just need to head to Guest Services upon entering the theme park (each of the parks have one). Speak with the Cast Member about your son's limitations. Be as specific as you can. A doctor's note is not necessary, but might be helpful. Based on what you tell the Cast Member, he or she should be able to provide you a Guest Assistance Card that specifically addresses your son's struggles. Do keep in mind that the Guest Assistance Card will not function as a FASTPASS. Rather, it may give you the option to wait in line in an alternate place so that your son will be better accommodated. I can tell you that my family no longer uses a Guest Assistance Card because we don't find it to be that helpful. When my daughter was younger, we used one because it would allow us to use our stroller as a wheelchair and that was very helpful. Nowadays, we find that making smart use of FASTPASS and taking frequent, short breaks are helpful touring tactics when it comes to visiting Disney with a special needs child. I hope that your trip is a huge success, Sherri! And don't hesitate to ask me any further questions if I can be of assistance.