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I hate this discussion and I think everyone knows where I stand on this issue. Just because a disibilty isn't visible, doesn't mean it's NOT as crippling as those that are. Anyone who says different is uneducated and ridiculous. - Mrsblue692.4 #150 11-17-12 4:08PMLike(29) Reply
Thank you mrsblue! I have 2 disabilities that aren't visible, MS and fibromyalgia, and I hate when people see me in a disabled spot, or getting the GAC, and give me strange looks. I would rather NOT need the GAC! - disneyfan46 334.5 #465 11-17-12 4:48PM
Every few months, let's just bump this post when this discussion gets started. - Alicewhoareyou 543.9 #213 11-17-12 4:51PM
@mrsblue well said :) thank you!
@alicewhoareyou I agree!!
@disneyfan46 I get those looks a lot it's sad that people don't understand but like I said they have their opinions & hopefully someday they'll see it differently. - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 5:11PM
Said so lovely mrs blue. And I'm right there with disneyfan46 I also have Fibro and a disorder called dystonia which is the sister to Parkinson's. just because at times (without my scooter) I look "fine an normal" does not mean I am. Also I hat the looks I get for being young and in a scooter or wheelchair. I have even had comments such as oh she's just lazy or fat an lazy. It hurts. Never assume people are not disabled and are just wanting to skip the lines! And GAC does not always get us on faster. I love the provision from Disney of the GAC and hope that individuals that using them are not abusing them! I would hate for this provision to be revoked by Disney! - ImAlwaysCrazy 646.5 #171 11-17-12 5:53PM
I agree I hope Disney never revokes the GAC pass. It's the only way I can enjoy the parks. - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 7:31PM
I think it's unfortunate that a couple of articles offering "insiders" tips have promoted getting a GAC to avoid lines...counting on Disney not asking for proof of disability. - montanapixies 36.7 #4185 11-17-12 11:37PM
I don't think ANYONE with a disability needs to explain to ANYONE what their disabilities are!! I'm sorry for your anxiety/panic attacks. If getting a GAC helps, than you go for it! That's what it's for. I hope the GAC does help so you are able to enjoy your time in the parks! :) - LizO™470.0 #262 11-17-12 4:00PMLike(4) Reply
I feel your pain. I have suffered from severe anxiety, panic attacks and depression for years and never thought of getting a GAC. If I had known I'm sure I would have enjoyed the parks so much more instead of having to medicate myself and hold onto my husband for dear life. I've fortunately gotten better (not cured) and am grateful for the Drs that have helped me but I'm glad this conversation came up because I probably would have had better experiences had I got one and now others know. If you ever need to talk about what you are feeling I'm here for you! - MrsSchnooks 713.6 #142 11-17-12 4:41PM
Thank you very much for understanding. GAC does help me enjoy the park more. I don't mind if I wait in line that's actually what I want. Thank you :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 5:20PM
& @MrsSchnooks On your next trip go to city hall and get the GAc card I didn't know about it till my sister who works at DCA told me about it. The trips before we're horrible it came to a point where I just wanted to go home. I'm glad not the only one who has this even though it feels like you are the only one. Thank you very much for your kind words and I'm also here all the time if you need anyone to talk to. Thank you :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 5:25PM
@KDN. Fortunately I don't need one anymore but it definately would have helped me a couple years ago. I responded well to medication and will actually be returning to work next month. There some rides that are still rough for me like Soaring for some reason. :-) Maybe just use it for that - MrsSchnooks 713.6 #142 11-17-12 5:34PM
MrsSchnooks I'm glad the medication worked for you and you are going back to work that's good news :) I'm still trying to control my attacks for job interviews and even for me to go back to school. That's one ride I always skip also but I'm sure someday we'll get on it :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 11:35PM
It's hard not to be offended by what somebody says on here about that when you have been on the receiving end of the dirty looks from people who don't see your disability, heck even when they can see it. Let them stew in their bitterness and misunderstandings and focus on enjoying your time at the parks while using the GAC. - Linzee533.4 #218 11-17-12 4:05PMLike(3) Reply
Thank you very much for your kind words :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 5:34PM
I dont get why people just don't mind their own business and keep to their own affairs! If there are using a GAC, no matter what they look like, what difference should that make?! It amazes me that anyone would even think to complain about it. I feel grateful that those that need it have that option and those that don't need it should feel grateful that they don't have a disability. Don't let anyone ever make you feel uncomfortable! You don't have to explain yourself to anyone! - LisaMouse7531409.4 #325 11-17-12 4:52PMLike(3) Reply
Thank you! Unfortunately there are people like that out there but it's okay they have their opinions and we have ours maybe someday they'll see it differently. Thank you for the comment :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 5:07PM
I'd like to share a really positive story right now...a year and a half ago, we brought my husband's grandma to DL. She is 87 years old and struggles with several conditions that make it difficult for her to move around. She was very nervous about the trip--in fact, she wanted to stay home until we had a long talk with her about how easy it really would be. We rented a small fold up wheelchair for her, but she didn't want a GAC card even though she could have easily used one. She had A BLAST! She was able to wait in many different lines in her wheelchair, and as the trip progressed, she used it less and less. This trip was such a confidence booster for her that she is currently packing to leave on a trip to Rome and cruise through the Greek Isles! She leaves Monday and she's never been to Europe before--it wouldn't have happened if she hadn't come to DL with us, and this confidence boost really started with a conversation about how accessible DL is for everyone: it's a true gift for all walks of life to be able to experience the magic--it's amazing to me what Disney makes possible for people! 😊✨ - Spoonful_O_Sugar439.1 #288 11-17-12 5:04PMLike(3) Reply
👆Oops, I got carried away! Please read it, though--it's a really special story :) - Spoonful_O_Sugar 439.1 #288 11-17-12 5:05PM
That's such a great story! Hope she has a wonderful and amazing time!!! - GarnerPhotography 321.4 #532 11-17-12 5:10PM
Thank you for reading it--I'm very proud of her! - Spoonful_O_Sugar 439.1 #288 11-17-12 5:41PM
Love this! - LisaMouse7531 409.4 #325 11-17-12 7:07PM
I love this thank you for sharing! Such an inspiring story! I hope she has a wonderful time on her trip! Thank you :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 7:19PM
I know where you're coming from. I couldn't go anywhere where there would be a lot of ppl without wanting to run away. I found a way to cope and eventually over come most of it and you will too. Some meds don't always help and some worsen the problem. If you ever need to chat I'm always on late. - dumbbunny186.8 #1826 11-17-12 4:03PMLike(1) Reply
I'm glad you were able to over come most of that feeling. I'm still finding ways how to cope with it but I will never give up :) thank you very much I'm always on here too if you will like to chat :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 11:38PM
The person was saying that no disability was present because they couldn't see one. They didn't believe that it is possible to be disabled and for others not to know it by looking at you. That's what I got from the attitudes of the two people who had an issue with the gac card. You have every right to be offended. People can be very ignorant even in this day and age. - aidensmama339.4 #446 11-17-12 4:16PMLike(1) Reply
Thank you for understanding. That's the same attitude I got too that's why I thought maybe if I post something they'll change their minds. Thank you for your comment :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 5:32PM
Unfortunately, I doubt they would understand even now. - aidensmama 339.4 #446 11-17-12 5:35PM
I must have missed the previous conversation about the GAC and opinions that it should only be for disabilities that can be seen. Maybe, it was for good reason that I missed it because I probably would have been crushed that people in this community are so ignorant and uneducated about disabilities. If you look at my hubs, his disabilities cannot be seen: his clothes cover them, but let me tell you what- getting a GAC is probabły the only way we will ever be able to do DL/DCA again. We always get stared at because he "looks" so good. It was hard in the beginning to get over the staring. People need to stop being so judgemental about what they don't know, and count their blessings that they don't need a GAC. Do what you have to in order to enjoy DL, otherwise our homes become a prison. - Sugarbuzz55.4 #3698 11-17-12 4:17PMLike(1) Reply
I would trade standing in the GAC lines for my daughter NOT to have Autism any day. - Mrsblue 692.4 #150 11-17-12 4:21PM
@mrsblue- I would give up the GAC to anybody who wants to trade places. I would love to stand inline for hours so hubs can be "normal" again. Who would really be envious of anybody with a GAC? I can hear them now "boy, I would like my kid to have autism, spina bifida, cerebral palsy; Boy, I would like to have panic attacks, anxiety; having my legs amputated sounds like a good way, or burned from my back to my feet in order to use a GAC. I just don't want to wait in line." Sad, sad. People are envious of the wrong thing. - Sugarbuzz 55.4 #3698 11-17-12 4:39PM
@sugarbuzz I agree I would love to trade places with anyone. It's unfortunate that there's people out there like that and don't think about this. They should be blessed that their family and themselves are healthy and ok. But it still breaks my heart that they think like that. - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 5:30PM
I agree! The only mark of my disability is my knee brace, which I don't often wear unless I really truly need it. But the GAC has helped so much, especially on those long days. Just because an illness is invisible, doesn't mean it isn't terrible! - BelleintheTARDIS258.8 #935 11-17-12 5:43PMLike(1) Reply
It's no ones place to judge. Ignore ignorant people - SupremeLeader394.0 #347 11-17-12 5:51PMLike(1) Reply
Same here. I have terrible anxiety issues. Despite loving Disney it's hard going...the car is so far away, there are crowds, loud noise, people touching me, and crowding my spacial bubble. It's really a test of wills just go get on a few rides and have the bar come down and lock on me. I use a disability pass on days or for rides that get my anxiety really high. The worst part are the looks when people are evaluating my disability. I avoid using my card as much as possible simply because the staring and scrutiny from guests brings on the anxiety I'm using the card to avoid. I get it. Just remember that nay Sayers aren't in your shoes and if their lucky will never feel the level of panic we experience so it's hard to understand. - pridegirl377.5 #369 11-17-12 6:26PMLike(1) Reply
Thank you for commenting! I used to get like that get the anxiety when people would stare at me when I used my GAC but my husband told me not to worry about. Every time we go he always makes conversations so I can be distracted from people staring. Next time just make conversation with whoever you are going with it'll keep you distracted from all those people :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 7:25PM
I can't say anything better than what's already been said in favor of KladiaDisneyNinja! I'll just add my 2 cents: I suffer from Fybromyalgia and Sjögren's syndrome. Just because we suffer in silence doesn't mean we don't hurt. I've found that for me, I can either focus on the pain, or focus on helping others. I choose the latter. If anyone has a GAC, that is their business and no one else's. Else we all run around with signs around our neck telling the world our ailments, I say..if you need a GAC, who are we to judge. - DisneyDavidEMT456.9 #269 11-17-12 8:48PMLike(1) Reply
Exactly well said 👏 thank you :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 11:28PM
There are many organic medicines for panic attacks and nausea... - BambooMike129.4 #2640 11-17-12 3:51PMLike Reply
So. Maybe she doesn't want to medicate at all. Her choice and no one else's business. - Mrsblue 692.4 #150 11-17-12 4:08PM
I will give you the benefit of the doubt that you are saying this tongue in cheek. Many people suffer from disorders that cannot be handled by organic or homeopathic "medicines", and to offer that as a serious solution would be callous on your part. Please think about re-wording your statement. Thanks. - SorcererBHhaha 408.6 #326 11-17-12 4:12PM
I think bamboo is trying to be helpful but unless you suffer from anxiety and or panic attacks you have no idea. My mom suffered from them at one point in her life and from what she said it literally feels like you are going to die. :( - aidensmama 339.4 #446 11-17-12 4:22PM
I wasn't saying it to be rude. I suffer from the same conditions... I was really just trying to help... I know how much organic medicines have helped me. That's all. @mrsblue... Your right it is her business... However, she just posted her business on a public forum. 😉 - BambooMike 129.4 #2640 11-17-12 4:27PM
aidensmama is right. You literally feel like you can't breathe or move and you're going to die. - MrsSchnooks 713.6 #142 11-17-12 4:45PM
@bamboomike it's okay I didn't get offended by it and your right I did put my business in a public forum I just want people to understand that there's non visible disability out there. Right now the only thing that keeps the nausea under control is Ginger Ale which I take everywhere with me and for anxiety/panic attacks I just take deep breathes sometimes it works sometes it doesn't. I will look into the organic medication thanks :)
@MrsSchnooks & @aidensmama it does feel horrible and it's something I will never wish to anyone to have it not even to my worst enemy. I can't even enjoy going to the movies and it sadness me. Thank you for the comments and understanding :) also thank you to @SorcererBHhaha thank you for your comment :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 5:18PM
You are correct, however as others have stated, it doesn't always work. An issues like panic attacks can lead to a far more serious after effect. - Gia 794.2 #122 11-17-12 6:02PM
Don't take it to personal. I have anxiety attacks too this is why I carry my medication when I'm at the parks. I don't feel the need to get a GAC because I'm able to control it, but I get where your coming from. It's not any body's business and no one can control how you feel until they are in your shoes. - nicealex77243.0 #1097 11-17-12 4:54PMLike Reply
Thank you :) I'm glad the medications worked for you :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 5:04PM
Mrsblue to they allow you to use the GAC for autism? My little guy is autistic and I think it would help him out tremendously not to have to stand in lines. Last time we went to Disneyland it was before he was diagnosed and poor thing spent most of the time in the stroller covering his ears. When he did feel comfortable enough to stand in line we only made it thru about half the time. It's very hard because he appears normal (he is very high functioning) but I have cards that I hand to people when I get dirty looks in the store or in public that say he is autistic and to please be patient with us. Thanks for the tip with the GAC that might help:) - brealover298.0 #634 11-17-12 4:55PMLike Reply
I'm sorry about your son but yes you can get the GAC explain your situation and they'll gladly give it to you. I understand about the dirty looks too its sad and sometimes irritating but there's nothing I can do about it. I hope on your next trip you'll have the best trip ever and that your son will also enjoy it :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 5:03PM
Thank you it's hard having a child with a non visible disability you just want to shelter them from the scunity of others but as someone else said that is when our homes become prisions so we have to keep trying and not worry what others think. Thank you for this topic it has helped me and I am sure it will help others. - brealover 298.0 #634 11-17-12 5:29PM
Yes they do and now we can ride together as a family! - Mrsblue 692.4 #150 11-17-12 7:10PM
That's very true my husband always tells me to ignore those people who are staring or even saying comments. No problem thank you for commenting and sharing :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 11:41PM
I got 2 (two) non visible disability. A busted Knee and i have issues with my lower lumbar disk. I hate all the dirty looks i get from CM and guess. But I would not have an issue standing in the general line with everyone else.
*** i have not used it at DCA can i use it there. please let me know. - MRINFINITI5.2 #10408 11-17-12 5:10PMLike Reply
Yes you can its the building behind the Oswald store by the entrance . I was just told this today - Snow33 151.4 #2310 11-17-12 5:36PM
???? Help please
What's behind the oswald store - MRINFINITI 5.2 #10408 11-17-12 6:10PM
I think it's called the Chamber of Commerce--the equivalent to DL's City Hall. - Spoonful_O_Sugar 439.1 #288 11-17-12 6:14PM
Yes it's behind the store. It's called Chamber of Commerce. The GAC pass works differently at DCA though. You can only get recovery passes for Tower of Terror, Toy Story Mania & RSR. For the rest of the rides I get a fastpass. - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 6:59PM
Did you know Disney has charging lockers for your phones! Awesome 👍 - Waites4DodgerEars690.1 #152 11-17-12 5:32PMLike Reply
It is pretty awesome, but I am cheap and I rather not pay for one. :) - aidensmama 339.4 #446 11-17-12 5:34PM
I have to say, getting a pass for my anxiety/panic attacks/agoraphobia SAVED my last trip to DL. I can stand in shorter lines, and if things get crowded I can usually find an empty space to chill and relax, but when lines are longer than 45 min or and hour, I get pani attacks in line because I feel clauserphobic. I am more than happy to wait out in the open for hours, and that's what the pass did, it was a huuuuge help. I honestly only used it twice (For RSR and Peter Pan).
Also, I've tried herbal mediciene, every technique known to man and traditional mediciene with little help. It's something I have always had and will most likely have forever, so I just learn to deal with it. I wish I didn't have to use the pass, but I'm so glad it available for people like us so we can enjoy the parks too 😊 - BettyPoop232.5 #1231 11-17-12 5:40PMLike Reply
I agree I'm also glad Disneyland has this pass. I don't mind waiting in line for hours as long as i have wide range of space also or at least if i get the attacks ill be able to get out easily. I'm glad the medication worked for you :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 11:46PM
I suffer from the exact same thing and it's taken me years to discover this. I'm sorry if this is too personal but are you on medication for it? my doc recently prescribed something for me and I'm REALLY nervous about it. - mochamistie272.8 #820 11-17-12 5:58PMLike Reply
It's okay. I'm not in medication for it I'm to nervous to try them too. I don't want to feel worse and that's why I haven't tried anything but breath in exercise. If you ever take the medication let me know if it worked. Thank you for commenting :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 7:29PM
I can tell you that I take Depakote daily as a mood stabilizer for my bipolar and anxiety, xanax for when I actually have an attack and then since my bipolar is classified as category 2, which means you suffer from depression more then mania I take wellbutrin and Prozac which also helps with anxiety. I've tried Lexapro and saphris and they didn't help me. And LOTS of therapy. If you have any questions feel free to ask. - MrsSchnooks 713.6 #142 11-17-12 7:44PM
There is nothing that upsets me more then when people judge. My husband has to ride in a scooter because of a back and neck injury he sustained while deployed overseas and it angers me when people look at him odd and I hear their comments. It gets to him where he will attempt to walk the park and cause himself severe pain so people won't judge him. I just wish people would stop being judgemental and realize not all disabilities are visible so keep the judgements to yourself. - DisneyDreamer18168.4 #2059 11-17-12 7:52PMLike Reply
I'm sorry about your husband and can you tell him thank you for serving on my behalf. This is what I mean people don't realize why and how we got the disability just because they can't see it, it doesn't mean we are just fine and want to cut in line. Your husband shouldn't feel ashamed as a matter of fact if my husband was there and heard those comments he would've been furious and told those people off. Ignore those people your husband shouldn't feel pain at a place where you guys are trying to have fun. - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 11:26PM
Good for you... and don't feel bad. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis, which is also invisible. I haven't used a card yet, but I know that I may have to soon... Sending good thoughts your way, and may no one steal your Disney joy! - LightyearsMommy6.7 #8653 11-17-12 7:59PMLike Reply
Thank you so much for your kind words :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 11:20PM
I've been recently diagnosed with MS and panic attacks. People have no idea how we feel. - ninailshalo823.9 #4849 11-17-12 8:12PMLike Reply
I'm so sorry to hear that I know how it feels and you are right people have no clue how we feel. It's the worst feeling in the world. But keep your head up high :) - KladiaDisneyNinja 197.3 #1702 11-17-12 11:18PM
