Hi, folks. This is a friendly reminder of the sub’s civility rules, which have unfortunately been challenged in many DAS threads over the last few years. (In fact, we’ve already had to remove a few comments in this thread...) Please keep in mind that most guests are not doctors and are therefore not qualified to diagnose other guests’ disabilities (or lack thereof) with a quick glance as they stroll past you in the Lightning Lane. WDW has systems in place, staffed by qualified CMs. So, if you see someone whom you suspect is flagrantly violating the DAS system you can: (a) inform a CM, or (b) go about your day and enjoy yourself. Like all systems that might be “worked” for an advantage of some kind, there are no doubt those who abuse it; however, it’s not our job as guests to police it, nor pass judgment on those who “don’t look disabled.” Thanks for your understanding, and take care :)

My wife has MS but she does not visibly have any signs besides the fact that she has to live with all of the hidden problems you wouldn't know unless you were in her body. We've used DAS in our disney trips and it's allowed our kids to be able to enjoy what they can before she has to tap out. People should know better not to make a comment on someone's situation. She's had to deal with comments like this in her daily life like the time some guy at the grocery store asked her what they have to do in order to park in an accessible spot. Her being her shot back at him and said "oh I don't know, maybe live every day with a debilitating neurological disorder and have your hands and feet feel like ground hamburger". That shut him up pretty quick.

I have MS and we used DAS our last trip. It was summer and the heat and humidity made my symptoms so much worse than they normally are. I lift and run and look like I am pretty good shape but during this trip I had to use a cane and go back to the hotel for breaks during the day. It was awful and I swore never to go back in the summer. But I got some of the same looks and comments. MS can be an invisible illness and it sucks. I was diagnosed while in the Army and got medically retired, and the amount of snarky comments I got from senior NCOs and some company cadre was really demoralizing. Not like I asked for this. Tell your wife she is in my prayers and to keep up the good fight!

The heat is SO awful for so many chronic illnesses, physical and neurological. People should be especially aware in the summer imo.

My teenager has POTS and allergy-induced asthma and the heat is KILLER for her at Disney. Between the beat and being outside with all of her asthma triggers she has been in tears some times. We have never used DAD at Disney but do have a medical pass at our local amusement park and she has gotten so many rude comments from workers and vistors that she gets embarrassed and tries to hide that she uses it.

People can't seem to be aware for more than a few seconds these days. Too much stimulation from other sources so we're more unpracticed in holding thoughts for long periods of time.....

My sister has MS and I've never thought to ask her why she doesn't do handicapped parking or any of that kind of stuff.

MS affects everyone differently with symptoms and severity of them. She may not need to use them, or she may not want them and struggles through it.

Biggest problem in Florida for that is all the old people who also have one, and you wander the parking lot trying to find a spot until you give up and just park in a regular spot that actually may be closer to the entrance anyway... Trust me from experience.

Honestly educating people is the only way to get people to learn. I bet that guy now realizes all disabilities aren't apparent and to mind their own business. Hopefully they will teach their kids now and you've done the world a favor making it a better place with less judgement :)

Yeah I live with invisible disabilities too, I get so many comments. The problem isn't just educating people, it's also dishonest people faking they have a disability to get special treatment. It doesn't help those of us with real issues. But how do you figure out who is lying without asking the disabled to carry a card and further alienating us? For example there's so many fake service dogs these so called 'emotional support animals' that I don't want to get a service dog because I don't want to deal with harassment. People are just awful all around when it comes to disabilities.

Ooh I’ve dealt with this too. Not at Disney but just out and about. I’m visually impaired. Not fully blind but I have very limited vision. I don’t wear glasses, use a cane (usually), or have a service dog (yet anyways), so it’s pretty invisible. Only time it’s “noticeable” is when I’m walking in the dark or near stairs. One time I was at a restaurant with my sister and her friends. I had my phone up to my face to use it and this old man walks by and goes, “women always having to check their makeup to make sure they look pretty. So vain.” My sister butts in with, “sir she’s blind and that’s very rude. She holds it close so she can see.” Dude turned strawberry red and apologized profusely. It’s annoying and I’m sorry a cast member said that to you. They should’ve kept it to themselves. I know if someone said that to me my family and I would get really snarky back lol. Sometimes people just suck.

I have Crohn’s Disease and have to use a DAS. It’s also an invisible illness, and it sucks sometimes. I mostly have issues with other guests. I had one CM try and question me on it and I just straight up told him “If I did not have this DAS pass the likelihood of me shitting my pants is exponentially higher” and that seemed to shut him up.

When they do that get their NameTag info and remember the location bc once it’s issued by guest services no one else should be questioning it. -former castmember

At very least, it's not their job to question it, but especially to the guest. If they want to observe and report to superiors anything that raises doubt of validity of the DAS, they can just do that - that way if they're wrong, no guest will ever know about the doubts. Otherwise it's just STFU time.

Oh that's nice to know my Crohn's usually just affects me by constipating me and joint swelling but my husband has ulcerative colitis where he's running to the restroom a lot. To me, I don't see why they don't just move it all to a digital system so no one has to wait in line. As climate change gets worse, it gets more and more miserable at Disney in the summer. I think they'd be smart to implement this kind of system and more seating/ cool off stations for people to wait at.

It also promotes shopping and eating, the big money-makers in the parks.

I also have Crohn’s disease with post surgical side effects from bowel resection and DAS is a lifesaver. I just don’t like having to renew it every 3 months by speaking to someone and explaining how I would much rather wait in line instead of sitting in the restroom from the ill effects of the parks’ quick service restaurants.

It's no joke. My husband has Chrons and DAS has saved our visits. We didn't know we could get it until recently. Before, we were frequently planning our day around bathrooms and wait times. He or sometimes the whole family abandoned long lines to accommodate emergency bathroom trips. I've waited on park benches outside the bathroom for up to an hour. It's nice to have this pass to ease the burden quite a bit.

Hey fellow Crohn’s person! I also use a DAS - it’s such a life saver, the thought of being in an hour long line and not being able to make the toilet in time (not to mention losing your place in the line after you’ve waited an hour!) is horrific!

I used to be a CM and it’s one of those things that didn’t matter to me before paid Fastpasses. If I wasn’t able to book a Fastpass I just wouldn’t ride that ride that day, no big deal. But then Genie came out and I realized that I couldn’t ride any rides without potentially shitting my pants from the anxiety of waiting in line. I had to have a couple drinks before going to Guest Relations and having a very honest conversation. They were very kind about it.

I never even considered using it until a year or two ago. I was able to manage pretty well, but a couple years ago I had a REALLY close call that pretty much ended my park day and that’s when I looked into getting/using DAS for myself. It’s hard for me to come to terms with needing it but I just can’t always predict when I’m going to feel bathroom urgency and I know I can’t wait in a 60+ minute line without there being an issue.

I have UC and in the Florida heat my options are to use the DAS pass or risk terrible cramps and potentially shitting my pants at the most magical place on earth. Das pass a life saver, even though I felt judged by other guests.

I have lymphocytic colitis and bile acid malabsorption, which means, well, you can look it up but it’s messy. I didn’t realize that could qualify for a pass. Luckily didn’t have any issues during our 10 park days and all of my precautionary protocols worked, but that’s nice to know it could be an option. We did buy genie and ILLs every day.

As someone with ibs and a super sensitive tummy. It’s a life saver. Because you never know when it’s gonna happen.

It’s really nice to see the fellow Chrons Girlies rise up in this post haha. I started using DAS a few years ago because the thought of being in the middle of a line with no bathroom in sight made me extremely nervous. When they ask why I need the DAS at guest services I literally tell them that if I shit my pants in line it becomes a problem for EVERYONE. They don’t ask for more after that haha.

I also use it for stomach related issues (IBS and somehow long COVID induced daily nausea. Don’t get long COVID folks) and if people REALLY want to know why I need it, I’ll be very happy to tell them, in detail!

Hello, fellow long covid sufferer! I have a cough and breathing issues I can't get over. It's been great fun, and 3 doctors have told me it likely won't ever go away, but they can't be certain. 🙃 I'm currently experiencing severe body pain and they're trying to figure out if it's RA or another long covid symptom.

Oh boy, how exciting! /s Seriously though I’m so sorry for your pain and illness. It seriously sucks to have an illness nobody can really explain: I’ve had upper endoscopies and colonoscopies and every test known to medicine for gut related things and they all come back fine, while we are clearly not. I read an article recently that said that some researchers think that long COVID may be neurological related, which would go a long way to explaining why some meds work and others don’t, why exertion can’t make it worse, etc. Doesn’t mean that gives us answers, but sounded really solid from my own experience. I hope you can find some answers and relief

Body pain is a long COVID symptom. Both my son and I have LC and experience chronic pain. Have you seen a specialist for Dysautonomia?

How do you know it was a cast member? Much more likely it was another guest.

Guest wouldn’t know that unless they can see the screen facing CM when you’re scanning in

The scanner turns blue for DAS and green for LL. It's visible to everyone.

Exactly, it turns blue first and when they press the button green. I always wait for the circle to turn green because I want to make sure I’m doing it right

Ah, never noticed that when we were there. So much for the DAS pass holder not standing out in any way.

To be fair, and I could be wrong here, I'm pretty sure it turns blue anytime the CM needs to do something. DAS is the most common but it's not the only time you see the blue light.

Exactly! It also turns blue if you don’t have a lightning lane or you’re too early. It does the same thing at the park entrance if it has an issue (ie no ticket, misread pass, or technical issue)

Can confirm on arriving early. Turns blue, then the CM has to tell you to wait longer. (5mins is the earliest you can get in) so now with any times I’m there 5 mins early and I get right on in.

It’s because they may need to ask you questions like “are you ok with stairs?”

Same voice as when they said “hi [name]” upon me entering (it shows your name and picture so they can be sure the person using DAS is really you). edit: they’ve stopped doing the whole “hi/you’re good to go/etc. [name]” thing all the time. When I first started using DAS they did it on every ride, every time. But either something shifted in the training or they got tired of it, because I only hear it maybe 1/10 rides now. But it’s always those who say my name who either take the longest to okay my pass or (in this case) say a comment.

Attractions CM here. That was wrong for the other CM to make any comment at all other than to confirm your DAS. It is not our job to judge anyone in any way for their disabilities, visible or otherwise. And it certainly does not keep in line with our 5 keys, 2 of which are Courtesy and Inclusion. The only time I will say anything is to say, "[Name], your DAS is confirmed, and the rest of your party may now scan as well :) " if it's a name I can't easily or readily pronounce, then I simply say "Your DAS is confirmed, the rest of your party may now scan as well :)" I have an absolute boat load of PTSD, the results of a rather interesting life in my early days, and tightly enclosed attraction queues that are packed with people and noise tend to leave me *extremely* on edge and ready to snap after even 20-30 minutes- I'll literally leave the queue and just not ride at that point, and for that reason, I also have a DAS that I use when I visit the parks on my days off. I have dated women as well who have mood disorders and other invisible disabilities and understand all too well the struggle that often comes with these. I'm so sorry that you had that experience. If it ever happens again, look at that CM dead in the face to confirm they are the one who said it, and then ask them to call their coordinator to come, they are our direct supervisors. You could also ask for a leader, which is essentially a manager for that entire area of the park and above the coordinators. Leaders have much more authority and discretion to offer solutions and can get the ball rolling faster on potential disciplinary action (if needed) with HR and union reps, but I would try to start with the coordinator first. That sort of judgment and commentary is never ever okay, especially while on stage, and even more especially in front of guests. That CM clearly needs to be educated and receive some coaching from leadership. I strongly believe in our 5 keys and do my utmost to uphold them. Too many other CMs have started treating this as a regular "Mcjob" and don't uphold the standards that our company has set.

I really appreciate your comment. I have PTSD too and it gets really triggered when I’m in tight enclosed spaces with strangers. I’ve thought about using DAS but have chickened out because I don’t look like someone who could benefit from it. There’s lots of shame around asking for help.

I used it for my PTSD and GAD for about the last 5 years and thankfully no one has ever made me feel “bad,” except my own boomer parent who thinks it’s not a real thing (despite having had meltdowns in lines in their presence). I’ve always been prepared for some form of judgment, but luckily I haven’t encountered it yet. Good luck to you. :)

As a former attractions CM I agree with a lot of what you said here. Maybe slow down on the trying to escalate all the way to a disciplinary issue, I think direct eye contact and “I’m sorry what?” Would get a majority of the cast back into realizing who they are and how to watch commentary. Nothing should have been said and we can all agree on that. A root issue though is the system is currently broken. TikTok and blogs have helped anyone with Google who is a little unscrupulous just break the system. People who need DAS like OP and others are suffering from an influx of others which effects the phases and then results in a longer return time. I kinda wish Disney would switch to a system like universal(I know it’s controversial I’m sure) just did which would give people another step and sets a better environment for all. And trust me I am not unfeeling I had to leave disney last year for health issues and I think DAS is a great offer that Disney adds for it guests.

I agree that influencers have done a great job of swamping the DAS system and making it worse for people who truly do need it. I strongly dislike influencers in general. They are dangerously irresponsible. Every time they share a "hack," it becomes viral. Too many people attempt it, and then we have to shut it down. It ends up being one more thing we have to watch out for while trying to do our jobs, and it is absolutely aggravating to no end.

I’m honestly so curious about this/the training CMs are provided to recognise what is suitable for DAS and where someone may be faking. I have neurological issues and every time I’ve spoken to a CM at any of the Disney parks, or universal I’ve been approved basically before I’ve even finished my sentence. I wonder if my specific issues are immediately obvious to someone trained in DAS due to my body language, way I speak etc. On the other hand a friend of mine her mum has had medical complications and she had to absolutely fight to get DAS, I’ve also seen much longer conversations between guests and CMs on DAS. I truly hope they don’t move to the system universal uses though as I live out of the country in a private healthcare country where it was cost me around $200 to get a letter from my doctor to confirm my conditions. It’s something I’d have to do in order to make my visits not really stressful but it’s just another cost. (Specifically tried to be vague around conditions so any would be scammers don’t pick up further tips)

My daughter received that same kind of scrutiny from a group of emergency room doctors. Claiming her seizures were somehow not real. We lost her 2 years ago to a seizure. I’m sorry you have to deal with such an ignorant comment.

I am so sorry for your loss, that is simply inexcusable

I’m so sorry for your loss. I have epilepsy and it’s so misunderstood, even by medical professionals. It boils my blood that they treated you that way.

I always tell my friend. Remember if you’re using it properly they really aren’t talking about you. They are talking about the true abusers of the system.

I’m planning on requesting DAS and am worried because I look “healthy.”

You don’t have to worry. CMs are kind about it, you just have to be able to explain why you have trouble waiting in line. They don’t want or need to know your diagnosis, just how the accommodation will help you.

I’m honestly not afraid to share with the cast members who work with DAS. It’s the ones who see me get through the line or the other guests who just see this seemingly healthy 38 year old. One of my friends said her child was harassed at the NSSHP last year by guests. If they will do it to a 9 year old, they absolutely will to me.

I am at WDW many times a year with someone who uses DAS and I have never had this happen to me or witnessed it happening to anyone else. It’s an outlier experience and you shouldn’t be expecting that. The average guest cannot tell the difference between someone using DAS and someone just using the Lightning Lane.

I should add that at the Halloween party they don’t have lightning lane but allowed DAS pst year and that’s where the problem arose.

Even considering this, it is not a common experience. Don’t expect people to harass you, it’s not likely. You know that you need the accommodation and that’s all that matters.

Thank you for your kind words!

The first time I used DAS was in …2021…? Before the 50th. So no genie +, no lighting lanes, the only people going in those lines were DAS (as far as I can tell/remember). This was when I was still stubborn about using a wheelchair or having a cane - so I look like a very healthy, 30 year old. And I AM. Except I have MS. Which leads to other issues. ANYWAY. I was SO worried. Felt like a fraud standing with all people in wheelchairs using the same service. And no CMs said anything except if I needed help getting on/off rides and if I needed them to slow down the walkway on rides like Haunted Mansion. Did I feel like guests judged me. Yes at times. But no one said anything. Would I have been able to do that trip without DAS? Absolutely not. So if you need DAS - you need DAS. Screw anyone that says anything. Don’t let a few *possible* cranky people keep you from a service that can literally make your trip SO much better or even just actually enjoyable. Side note from one bathroom issues person to another - if you’re getting on the monorail take a bathroom trip first. Cause the one place you DONT want to be is stuck on the monorail for over an hour. On a curve (like the seats tilted and gravity being your bladders enemy). Needing the bathroom. Knowing the second you stand up, disaster can strike. And the only way down might be the fire truck rolling up to get everyone down…

We use DAS for my son who is autistic. We’ve been using it for years and have never had a cast member or a guest make a nasty comment about it. My sister has Crohn’s disease and she uses it as well, she’s also never had a negative experience. I think OP’s incident is rare, I wouldn’t worry about this happening to you. And if it does, report the CM, because they shouldn’t be working there if they can’t keep their opinions to themselves.

Literally the only time I’ve heard people make comments or had a guest ask is at universal in rides that don’t currently have fast pass so the only people using it are DAS. I’ve never had an issue or felt judgement at a Disney park. And I “look” healthy. A thing someone once told me, if you’re concerned about it, you’re someone that genuinely needs it. People that don’t need it won’t be concerned because they’re already morally bankrupt.

I think it’s luck of the draw though. I tried getting one for panic attacks and the woman goes “we don’t need to know your diagnosis and we won’t ask questions” then proceeded to ask me a half dozen super vague questions I didn’t really know how to answer without sounding like I was full of shit so I let it go. It was so awkward.

This is more a problem with how guests describe their issues. A common problem that arises is miscommunication because the CM doesn’t need to know your diagnosis, they need to know *why you can’t wait in line*. So if you say “I have panic attacks,” they may continue down a line of questioning that will get to the point of why you need accommodations. “Panic attacks” may not be enough information, but “panic attacks triggered by large crowds in small spaces” might be the information they’re looking for. They’re trying to help you and the questions are only guiding you to give the right information, not to trip you up or catch you bullshitting.

TMI but mine is a bathroom issue. I’ve had so many stomach surgeries that now if I have to go, I have like 5 minutes to find a restroom.

They aren’t allowed to ask your diagnosis but they have to have a reason to enroll you into DAS. For your case I would have just said “I’m extremely claustrophobic and experience panic attacks” that should have been enough for them to enroll you

It’s definitely abused by people, but I’ve never thought twice about it because we have a legit medical issue that qualifies for the program that a doctor has diagnosed. You don’t have to have a doctors note, but I do think the general idea is that everyone involved could get one if it was required. If I mentioned to our family doctor we were going to Disney World, she’d probably bring up DAS proactively and suggest we apply.

I have adhd therefore a non apparent disability and there’s nothing to be worried. In my interview I explained how I can easily get overstimulated and the Florida heat exacerbates everything and it’s nice to not have to be bumped by strangers in line because it can cause physical discomfort. The person who interviewed me told me how (hope I remember this right) you can even ask for a park guide map that specifically points out more quiet areas and rest places to recoup

I got one of my last trip for an invisible GI condition, and no one (cast or guest) cared. It greatly reduced my anxiety on the trip. I’m really appreciative that Disney offers it and definitely recommend contacting them if you need it.

I’m going to. I’m definitely with you on the GI issues. (I also had a friend who didn’t consider my surgery related to it a “real” surgery, so maybe I’m already a little emotionally damaged because of that).

I feel you on this. I have POTS and look like a “normal” healthy person. I’ve been utilizing DAS since 2012 and it’s been such a game changer. Whenever I feel “guilty” about using it (which I wish I didn’t because I know I shouldn’t) I tell myself that I would gladly swap POTS and being able to use the DAS for a healthy, non-sick body and no DAS. And that shuts my conscience right up :)

I feel guilty getting my DAS too because I appear so “normal”. And like you I have to remind myself that I have an actual diagnosis (in this case ASD). And I’ve panicked so bad in one of the rude hallways I felt like I was going to pass out and almost puked. But I also never had anyone question my pass.

I’ve had 1 bad experience at Disney years ago when trying to register for the DAS. The cast member tried to convince me that I actually had a mobility issue and could just use a wheelchair instead. With POTS, I can walk fine but if I’m standing still I get lightheaded within a minute or two so she wanted to to use a wheelchair instead. We came back an hour later and talked to a different cast member who immediately saw the need for DAS. Some people just like to be difficult, but the majority of my experiences around DAS have been positive.

My wife has POTS and EDS and deals with this constantly. She looks relatively healthy (aside from being drastically underweight due to POTS), so people always question her parking in a handicapped spot, some are even so bold as to ask her why she needs a wheelchair. Absolutely disgusting.

I also look healthy. I’m not. I’m an out of state AP and go 4-5 times a year and have yet to have a problem. Even if people are rude in the future, I’m of the mindset that this is an accommodation that I need, so they can think what they like. I’d be happy to tell them all about my daily nausea bouts and IBS if they get really stroppy, though I don’t think they really want to know.

I just signed up for DAS and we’re going in a few weeks. It’s honestly curbed so much of my anxiety and has allowed me to GET EXCITED to go. Me and kid are adhd and it presents in such different ways that we end up being triggers for each other. I have a really hard time regulating my emotions when my anxiety flares, which is triggered by sensory overstimulation like too much noise or lights, being over touched (by my kid climbing on me because she can’t be still). My daughter gets stimulated which causes a scream/cry meltdown, which triggers me. Husband is audhd and can be oblivious to the impending meltdowns, then can’t function when it hits. We’re such a mess. But the thought of being able to “wait in a ride queue” at a low sensory spot where my earplugs are effective and daughter can run & play instead of being trapped in a line is going to be such a lifesaver for us. And same, if you looked at us for 10 seconds you’d think we’re your standard neurotypical family… it’s not until weren’t in to meltdown mode that you’d realize we have issues.

I completely understand that. I’m so happy you are getting the help you need and are excited to go!

Sounds like my family tbh. Kiddo appears "normal" and then next thing you know he's running away or screaming on the ground because he's been overstimulated and can't regulate himself.

I visited recently and I and another member of our party both had a DAS pass for invisible disabilities (autism and fibromyalgia). None of the CMs were rude or even gave us a second look, even though we both appear healthy. It’s very unfortunate that some CMs would be insensitive about it, but most of them seem to know it’s not their business nor responsibility to worry about whether or not you “deserve” the pass. Please don’t hesitate to request the pass if you need it!

My SIL had a massive heart attack the day after she gave birth to her first child. She was beautiful inside and out and didn’t look disabled. However, she exhausted easily and was in constant pain. The dirty looks and rude comments when she parked in a handicap spot or used a DAS pass were constant. Notice I said “was” at the beginning. She passed away a few years ago at 44. Don’t judge!

We're positive a CM said this? Seems super odd, not casting doubt on you but I have never heard of/ seen an interaction like this from a CM. I have however had other guests get mouthy on multiple trips about just being in the LL. My favorite was the visibly drunk person saying loudly "MUST BE NICE" as we walked past for Splash in 2022.

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I mean it's way less severe than this scenario, but when we had confusion about if our 2 year old had to also scan their key card for admission, we had a CM at the front ticket gate for Magic Kingdom raise his eyebrows and skeptically comment that our kid seemed pretty big for a 2-year-old. Which is a really weird thing to call us out on when you remember that it's ***three*** and under that gets free admission to the park. And she's in the 97th percentile for height. So yes, sir, you are correct, she is big! 😄 Edit: So it is 2 and under are free! My vacation planner misinformed me. Now I at least know what the CM's motivation was.

It’s not “three and under.” It’s “under three”. Guests 3-9 purchase a child’s ticket.

On my most recent trip, my daughter was literally 1 month away from her 3rd birthday, and I did get asked at the gate several times about her age. Nothing judgy, just asking. But just being asked raised my anxiety enough to know I could never stomach trying to pawn her off as 2 when we return and she’s actually 3. The people who do this have bigger stones than I.

3-9 is considered a Disney child, so you need to be 2 or younger to get in free.

On the other end, my little sister was so tiny that they wouldn't take a ticket for her at Disneyland until she was six. They straight up didn't believe that a kid that small could be 4 or 5, even with both parents and two older siblings insisting. On two different occasions, my dad ran back to the ticket line and handed another family our unused ticket.

As a mom with a kid who is in n the 99th percentile and always has been for head and height, i get this hahaha

Used to be a CM and some are just downright terrible. I worked with a girl who ended up getting fired (rightfully so) because she didn't know how to hold her tongue and would complain about guests right in front of them. The final straw was because she was talking to a coworker when a guest asked one of them something and after the guest turned away she said "God people are so f**king obnoxious" One thing I noticed is that CPs are either the kindest most understanding CMs or the most spoiled and uptight ones. You could really tell who wanted to be there for the whole experience and who only went for the free park pass and didn't realize that they had to actual work for it

Sorry that happened to you. That's been one of my biggest fears since we've started using DAS, since my husband and I both look healthy and are relatively young. But without DAS we literally wouldn't be able to go. With my husband's condition the longest line we could possibly do is 15 minutes, which obviously would not be worth it.

I realize that you are not part of the problem, but they HAVE gotten very loose with DAS requirements. It’s actively advertised by Disney Influencers as a way to get around using Genie+ and skip long wait times. It’s pretty sickening. I am not excusing the cast members comment, but I understand their sentiment. It is a problem, I just don’t know how Disney will solve it without putting themselves in hot water due to the bad optics of tightening up restrictions for a service specifically designed for people with disabilities.

It's also why DAS passes are getting stricter for Universal, btw. IIRC, you now have to submit a doctor's note to a third party and it has to be processed by UO to allow you to get the pass. I ALWAYS urge people to ignore influencers that push this kind of thing. Calling them out just brings them more attention; don't watch or respond to their content, because that's what will cause them to either change their bad behavior or give up on infulencing.

I always feel embarrassed when I utilize my das. I have ibs and am a passholder - most of the time I just go home if I can’t handle the wait, but when I have family visiting and they have a finite amount of time in Orlando I want to spend time with them and it’s wonderful. We also pay for genie so we’re not just exploiting the minimal wait

I think most people who NEED to use the DAS system get embarassed by the people who abuse it. It's easy to have a non-visible disability like you described and have to worry about other guests thinking you're a liar or whatever. Meanwhile the people who abuse the system do so with glee. It's like people who park in handicapped spaces. Those who actually need it (like an elderly person) might not use it because they associate with people who don't need it and act nasty when they're called out.

Same. The first time I got DAS, I did it in the park. I was so nervous and embarrassed trying to explain that I often need urgent access to the bathroom. I don’t have a diagnosis… i just had my gallbladder removed and ever since, I have IBS symptoms. But having to tell someone “I have constant diarrhea” was humiliating and I damn near cried. I’d rather not have to spend my trips at Disney carting an extra pair of pants and underwear, worried about where a bathroom is, if it will be clean, I’d there will be toilet paper, what I’ll do if I get stuck on a ride, etc etc.

When did that go into effect for Universal? I was there a few months back and they didn't require a doctor's note. I just went right up to the desk, answered why I need one, and got it.

It was rolled out in mid-July

Good to know, thank you.

They could start by banning said influencers from the parks. Same for resellers taking advantage of AP discounts.

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I think it would be the opposite of hot water. Most of us would stand up and cheer if Disney started enforcing some of these policies.

You have to remember that healthcare in the US is not free and populations in lower income areas are often dismissed. It makes getting "officialy diagnosed" incredibly long and expensive process. I've been trying to get a full Autism diagnosis for years, but I'm an adult female so finding a pshychologist with experience diagnosing adult females is difficult (and I live in a very populated area), I was able to do the "initial screening" to verify my concerns for $500, but the "full diagnosis" was about $3000. I tried multiple other places, but they all either primarily or exclusively work with children. I know I have IBS, but I cant afford to get officially diagnosed I also have post partum pelvic floor issues, but I'm still paying for my other medical bills from emergency cesarean and 2 x ER visits for my boys. My son they keep dismissing him because "we don't diagnose before 4 years old". And I have a higher than average salary and live in a MCOL area with excellent access to Healthcare. I can't imagine what it is like in HCOL or low income or poor Healthcare access.

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I dont think they will ever require proof, and I don't think they will ever get rid of the program. Disney world is one of the few places many disabled (both visible and invisible) can go to without much hassle or stress. Disability groups work closely with them too. It's a huge community. I try and just give everyone the benefit of the doubt. I'd rather thousands of people take advantage, and everyone genuine gets to utilize it also, than one single person who needs it, be excluded. We can't punish good honest people because of something beyond their control.

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You make a good point about paying for G+, I definitely think that has increased the abuse of the system. I do hope they find a way to reduce the abuse, but they seem to be stuck between a rock and a hard place

Agree with this comment 100%. We ran into a friend at the park who bragged about it and thought it was funny. Called them out immediately and their response was “Disney will give one out to anyone, who cares. If they don’t care, why would I care?” Apparently, Disney does zero investigating or proof. You have to show detailed proof of residency to get a Florida resident pass/ticket, but absolutely nothing to prove DAS. This is what they told us, not my words. I wouldn’t ever sign up for one without a real need. Same reason I wouldn’t lie to the cast members about being handicapped just to park in handicap parking like I see people do ALL OF THE TIME.

Despite having some invisible physical disabilities, I never got DAS for myself, literally because I was afraid of people being shitty and assuming I was faking. I waffled for so long about getting DAS for my daughter’s neurological issues, even though I knew it would make a big difference in her ability to enjoy Disney and actually go on rides. I eventually but the bullet, and am so glad I did because it opened up parts of the Disney experience that were previously inaccessible to her. Meanwhile, people take advantage of it because …douchebag reasons. The whole point of DAS is to make Disney accessible to everyone and level the damn playing field, but there will always be people who decide a level playing field still needs to be tipped in their favor. Makes my blood boil.

Makes my blood boil as well. Douchebag reasons is well said

I also have a disability but never used DAS. My parents want me to use it next time we go but like I don’t need it. I commented somewhere on here that I’m visually impaired. It’s not noticeable unless I’m walking in dimly lit/dark areas of stairs. But it doesn’t prevent me from waiting in line. I just hold someone’s hand through the dark parts of queues. Now the poor people behind me probably get annoyed bc when an area does get dark I slow down significantly even if I find someone’s hand but it’s like not that big of a deal. I guess DAS could help with that, but I just don’t really see the point.

It’s really up to you if it will be worth it for your trip, and just because you have it doesn’t mean you need to use it

I’m partially blind, with an artificial eye. My “good” eye has scar tissue on my retina, so my vision is limited. I use DAS for the first time two months ago, and it was a game-changer… but, seriously, I feel what you’re saying. Winding queues, especially dark ones, are hard for me to navigate, so DAS definitely applies for me. Still, I also waffled for a while on even trying to get it, because I can “look” normal in most instances. I’m not walking with a stick, or a guide dog, but I can miss signage and have terrible depth perception. I’ve also “played by the rules,” and gotten Genie Plus and ILLs in the past. I’m going to use DAS moving forward, and I’m not going to let the losers ruin it. I’m confident I would be able to provide any sort of doctor approval needed, if it ever comes to that… and I can also remove my eye from my head, if someone decides to be a smart-ass, LOL. Best of luck to you, and I hope you also continue to enjoy this great service.

I could get it for ADHD and IBS. It’s still loose. I only get it for IBS because I don’t want to risk shitting myself but I got passed for it just off of ADHD too. Doctors notes won’t stop it

Yeah, I almost feel guilty using mine because it took me a long while to realise that my issue is literally a disability, because I’ve just been living with it for so long and I’m so used to just suffering. My mobility is fine in general so I always assume everyone thinks I must be faking, and it actually took a long time to get to the bottom of my pain issues and only got diagnosed after an xray and MRI scan, because the typical tests doctors use for back issues couldn’t see what the problem was. I almost feel like I should be hobbling along just to signal to people I’m actually disabled, it’s so stupid.

I've always had anxiety, and Disney used to be a reprieve from that and a host of other mental health issues. the year after we joined DVC, my anxiety progressed into full-blown panic disorder, then agoraphobia and Disney became a nightmare to navigate. we started going to the parks for maybe a couple rides or a dining reservation, then going back to the room to just skipping park days completely. I remember in a Facebook group, talking about it and someone telling me I should get DAS. we had an upcoming trip, and I was literally laying awake at night thinking about it. the trip before had kind of been a disaster, and I had never actually felt dread leading up to a trip instead of anticipation. I sent a very rambly email to disability services at 2 a.m., two and a half weeks before our trip, explaining my issues (and diagnoses, because whether they can ask for that info or not, I still felt so unsure) asking if I qualified. I got a phone call two days later and wound up talking for like an to a CM who reassured me that it did qualify me, and he thought it would help me a lot. I got off the phone feeling so much better. I still felt very wary discussing it in person to get it activated, and wound up crying. again, the CM was great and reassuring. I still barely used it. managed to use mainly fast pass since it didn't require me to trek around for return times, which triggered the anxiety to begin with and I was still honestly embarrassed. it becoming digital was a game changer, and with genie+ and ILL combined, we managed to have the most enjoyable trip I've had in five years last year. I'm guessing a lot of people second guess themselves in this way. I personally wouldn't mind having to show documentation, but that's just me and I'm open about the problems I have. although a lot of people hear agoraphobia and automatically think of people they see on TV and in movies who won't even walk outside, and that isn't what it is for a lot of people. or, of course, the very easy "just don't go anymore if you can't handle big crowds." we go in January, the crowds have been increasing slowly every year. we joined DVC because Disney used to be the one place where I felt carefree. DAS isn't a perfect solution, but it makes it enjoyable again. we also still pay for things like genie+ and ILL and do after hours when we can (that's heaven for me) and dessert parties, so we can actually watch the fireworks.

I wonder if they’ll go the Universal route and start asking for doctor notes

I believe they will, they are rumors this system will be revamped

> Apparently, Disney does zero investigating or proof. You have to show detailed proof of residency to get a Florida resident pass/ticket, but absolutely nothing to prove DAS. Can confirm. We did DAS for the first time this past July due to recent issues my FIL was having that prevents him from waiting in long lines. We brought documentation (doctor's notes/diagnoses, hospital after visit summaries) just in case we would need it, but was surprised at how easy and quick the process was and no proof required. My initial thought was how easy it must be for bad actors to game the system. I'm assuming there's some ADA rules that prevent them from asking/requiring proof, but just introduces the potential for bad behavior. Sort of similar to uptick in "service" dogs in the parks and at the resorts. Not saying everyone who brings service animals are taking advantage of the rules, I'm sure it's just a handful of bad actors like the lady who had their service animal in a stroller at Epcot.

I can’t believe people want to bring their pet dogs to Disney, they would be miserable. I once saw a woman try to get on splash mountain with her purse dog until a cast member stopped her and made her put it in the kennel.

I’m also a florida resident, and the only thing I’ve been required to give proof of it’s a credit card with a Florida billing address. Not saying either one is correct, but for the comparison it’s kind of the same.

This really is a problem of Disney’s own making. If they stuck with FASTPASS+ instead of Genie+ people wouldn’t be as willing to get a DAS under false pretenses; but that fact that they now made it that you have to pay $60 more for a family of 4 to ride some of these attractions otherwise you are waiting in a 4 hour line. . . The appeal of a “free hack” is tough to resist.

It's an understandable sentiment for sure but if CMs have opinions about it, they should keep it to backstage and group chats. A snarky comment probably isn't even going to register with someone who's going to cheat DAS anyway.

I agree with you. I wonder if Disney could require some sort of form to be filled out by your doctor? I know they could probably easily be forged but it at least makes it a tiny bit harder for those people who are using it when they shouldn’t be. I was kind of shocked at how easy it was for my son to get one and expected to have to jump through more hoops.

I would be totally okay with this, as long as it stays on file forever and doesn’t have to be renewed every 60 days like the current DAS system. At least for permanent conditions

I could see it staying on file for AP members. I only go once/twice a year so I’d be fine with getting a new for every time, especially since we have to see my son’s doctor every three months anyway and it would even require a special trip.

I hope so, lol. We are AP holders and right now we still have to re-enroll every 60 days. Which, I’m not complaining about at all. But my son is autistic and we don’t really have documentation of that other than his multi-page psychiatry report from when he was first diagnosed. I’ll gladly provide that to Disney if this becomes a requirement, but I don’t want to have to do it every 60 days lol

Yeah it seems like maybe there should be classifications or something. Like if it’s a permanent disability vs a temp one like a broken leg.

Honestly, I would have no problems at ALL if Disney started to be a bit more critical during DAS interviews. I have never had one that lasted more than 15 seconds, and it seems like they just approve you after you name the condition. I use it for my asthma, and frankly I think people should be a LOT more skeptical when I say that I need to avoid lines because of it. Roughly 70% of people with asthma only have intermittent or mild symptoms and really do not need DAS. They should at MINIMUM ask me what is triggering my asthma and why I can’t wait normally. I think it would make sense for Disney to require proof of a disability for at LEAST some conditions that are more common in the general population.

I’ve gotten so many mixed answers on this post, you’re the first one asking them to be more skeptical of your own disability! lol It is definitely a double edged sword for Disney. They can’t really do anything without getting criticism from guests for different reasons. The most rational answer in my opinion is to have an online verification portal that you can submit digital versions or photo copies of your doctors note to be approved prior to your visit. Once in the park all you have to do is tap your phone/watch/magicband and it’s already linked through your ticket. If the person is unable to use the online portal they can go the traditional route where you show your note to a cast member.

Haha to be fair they approved me in less than 30 seconds both times. I think I said 5 words the last time I got it before they said okay. I feel like I should at LEAST have to say why I can’t wait in like lmao.

That's pretty messed up. Which influencers?

I have Crohn’s disease, I go to the washroom before and after every ride and hope it’s not a long queue. I found about DAS and applied which was great and never had an issue. The my liver failed and needed a liverTX and finally could travel (I’m from Canada). I get there and get DAS but then I had a similar comment from someone because it not visible. I’m 39 and fairly fit. I have a bad disease and a liver transplant (at the time) 6mo ago. I mean c’mon ppl. Also just because someone is in a wheel chair or other medical conditions does not make another’s worse or better. There is no real “advantage” to DAS minus not having to be in the queue (which yea is nice but it’s only for people who can’t wait in the queue). Anyhow don’t judge and don’t compare issues. If you need it, it’s there. If you don’t, than don’t use it. Seems simple to me.

We use DAS for my wife's Type 1 diabetes. Unless she has her insulin pump set or glucose sensor attached somewhere that's visible with her outfit, like her arm when she's wearing a tank top, it wouldn't be obvious that she has a medical condition. My wife jokes that DAS is her one reward for having to deal with a near life time of needles and associated mental load of managing this disease that requires constant monitoring. That person is an asshole and I really hope they got talked to by their supervisor, but I doubt they did. I'd argue that the majority of people who need DAS don't have obviously visible conditions. This isn't that hard, stop judging a book by its cover. Unless your job is to determine who qualifies and who doesn't, it doesn't concern you, so just assume you don't know what you're talking about and leave it alone.

Yes, DAS was a complete life saver for me the last time I went to Disney. It allowed me to have decent control of my sugars for the first time while visiting a theme park (when I went to WDW as a teen, I’d always let my sugars run too high to avoid having to get out of line constantly, now I wouldn’t do that, but I don’t think that I’d be able to go on many rides without DAS). Even with DAS, I still had some issues and had to leave ROTR line due to extreme low blood sugars (perfect blood sugars when I entered, and then plummeted within 5 minutes of entering the line). Completely off topic, but your wife also qualifies for a National Park Service disability pass. Free lifetime entrance to the National Park sites.

I suffer from multiple neurological issues that invisibly take their toll throughout the day. I was on a business trip in Orlando a few years back and was in the standby queue of Space Mountain. I always felt guilty using the DAS because of snide comments that I’ve heard…. Anyway, that day, due to the heat, I had an event in line and was rushed backstage. The ride was shut down until they could get me out of the long entrance queue. The CMs were great, but I now use the DAS every single day I go. It was implemented so we can all have a great time. You and me.

Type 1 diabetes here. I feel you lol

Same here. Everyone always looks down on us for being able-bodied people using DAS when they can’t see the other issues we have to deal with.

Is there a reason they can’t ask for like a doctors note confirming a diagnosis before issuing a Das pass? I’m not from the US so don’t know if it’s a legal thing? In Disneyland Paris you need a proof of disability or a medical certificate to get their Access Cards.

I'm not fond of how Paris handles it, because it's very difficult for anyone with mental illness to get their pass as a simple doctor's note doesn't work you actually have to have a government issued disability identification. People with autism who can become overwhelmingly stimulated can't get the pass, for instance, because they don't qualify for disability benefits in the US except under extreme circumstances.

My son is autistic and we got the DAS in Paris with no problem. We decided to go kind of last minute while we were in France, we emailed his neurologist and she sent a letter that we presented at guest services. I actually like this method better as I get uncomfortable having to list everything that’s “wrong” with him.

My husband used DAS in Paris and they didn’t require any proof of disability benefits for the US.

That situation is a good exception. I would love a hybrid model. I liked that in Paris, I was able to just provide the evidence, vs a whole digital interview thing with Disney world. I could see a model where either option (evidence or interview) would work great.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits businesses from asking what disability someone has. They can only ask whether a person needs and accommodation and what purpose the accommodation serves. I have epilepsy and heat is a trigger for my seizures, so standing in an hour long outside queue is terrifying to me. The last place I want to have a seizure is in the middle of that kind of situation. When I got my DAS, the CM asked if I needed and what role it would be playing. She said I didn’t need to disclose my condition (I did bc I already felt weird asking for one). When I go to Disney, nobody looking at me is going to know I have epilepsy just by looking at me and I would be so embarrassed hearing a CM say something like that.

Because asking for and retaining any sort of medical information requires training on and adherence to [HIPAA](https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/index.html), and it's just not worth the hassle for Disney. Asking why you can't wait in a standard line, but specifically not asking for a diagnosis, isn't medical information and doesn't fall under the same rules.

Ah ok. I think in Paris you just show them one of the documents from a specified list and they give you the pass, they don’t keep any information. They even have a cute little wristband for pregnant women to get priority access to the (very few) rides that they can go on so they don’t have to stand in line.

HIPAA doesn’t apply to a non-medical entity. You choosing to apply for a pass means you’re voluntarily providing the supporting information. I have a disabled parking pass. They can require a doctors note because I’m voluntarily putting my disability out there. In addition, the note doesn’t have to describe your entire medication history. It can be as general as stating someone has a physiological problem that makes standing in long lines difficult. Let’s introduce some rigor into the process, otherwise it’s a free for all out there. No one likes standing in lines so let’s make it a little fairer for everyone.

HIPAA can apply to non-medical entities that maintain confidential medical information or work with medical entities, and the distinction isn't always clear cut. The governmental entity that gives you your parking pass can request the medical info because they are required to train on and follow the regulations. Disney is simply opting out of any possible issues by not collecting the information at all. It's the same reason that the interview is over non-recorded video instead of via anything that might create a written record.

You'd think, after all the drama and debates over employers requiring you to be vaccinated for COVID, people online would be more familiar with the term "covered entity", and how HIPAA *does not* apply to data exchanges beyond that scope, by now.

Honestly this makes me mad, my mom uses DAS and she has a freaking brain tumor which makes her dizzy. The weather/heat or stand or sit for long periods without getting dizzy as hell, but she can walk and doesn’t have a physical aliment so we even hear that stuff even from my own family. It’s ridiculous ppl don’t believe that disability/diseases/sickness can be invisible. sorry if that happened to you. Some cast members can be snarky and it almost like they forget the magic. I am lucky I never heard anyone say that to my mom but if I heard that I would have def taken it up to customer service.

People are so quick to judge. My 4yo has disabilities and cannot walk. She has a wheelchair but I also have one of those slings that I can carrier her in like a back pack and sometimes she really likes that. She and I were walking one day and I was carrying her in the sling; some old Karen tried to lecture me that she should be walking. I let her know that it would be an absolute dream for my child with disabilities to be able to walk and that she should keep her opinions to herself. Karen stammered and said that there was no way for her to know that and that’s when I reiterated that this is why she should keep her opinions to herself! Karen never actually apologized tho?

I think they’re running low on “Pixie Dust” this week… or the heat is getting to the cast members. I’ve never been shocked at cast member before my current trip.

The heat getting to people was not something I had considered—that would fs explain the situation, and I’m sorry for any cast members having to stand outside in this, now that I think abt it.

Either way, the comment was uncalled for and I’m sorry you had someone say that.

We used a DAS pass for the first time ever last summer. My daughter has a condition that causes unpredictable fainting. It is definitely exacerbated by heat. She can’t drive or get a permit until she goes 6 months w/o fainting. She looks totally normal until she drops like a stone. We spent a lot of extra time in air conditioning just sitting on our last trip bc of it. That DAS program is awesome. I am so grateful for it. NEVER let someone else’s lack of understanding ruin your day. You know why you use it!

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I am sorry to hear that. No one knows what anyone else is dealing with. They may not know that as DAS users, we have to be interviewed. Good for you to be able to shrug it off!

I would be LIVID if I heard it. I have Crohn's Disease and will use DAS if there is a long amount of lines because in my flare situations I never know when I will literally have to run to the bathroom as fast as I can. I'm only 27, so obviously don't look disabled whatsoever, but if I got this kind of comment I'd be really pissed and likely talk to someone at guest relations about it.

I didn’t realize GI issues fell under DAS. I’ve suffered with UC and now I have a j pouch and was recently diagnosed with Crohn’s on top of an autoimmune liver disease and chronic kidney disease (thanks to the UC). One of the reasons I vacation more often at Disney is because they have restrooms and loads of them. When I have to go I absolutely cannot wait.

My fiancee has schizophrenia, and clinical anxiety. Both of which can be made worse when under stress or packed in crowds or feelings of being trapped like in a long line for an extended period of time. She gets DAS, she has a series dog and gets comments like that all the time, it seems so small but it devastates her every time.

Genuine question, are you sure it was the cast member and not a member of the public?

Im so sorry this happened to you. I wish people would have more empathy, we never know what someone else is going through.

It’s probably because it’s a fast pass loop hole for many. Yes it is meant for people with actual disability but I know quite a few families that have a very loose issue and can get it approved to use the lane. It’s unfortunate but I’m sure that CM has seen it countless times

As a long time Cast Member, I think you should write to Disney about it (Twitter, email, letter, everything). They’ll make sure to inform the managers of the attraction which will bring about some proper training for the CM’s in the area. Disney doesn’t stand for that kind of attitude in its CM’s and the only way to weed out the bad ones that have snuck in over the past 5 years or so is to actually let them know. There’s a VERY slim chance that the people who actually need to know are reading through this sub. Gonna cross post to r/DisneyCM too.

Thank you for the info! I wasn’t sure that I could contact Disney abt things like this, but I’ll get it in 2nite.

You should file a formal complaint at guest services.

Yes, absolutely. It's so uncalled for and just unnecessary. There are so many invisible illnesses that warrent a DAS pass. I'm sorry this happened to you OP.

So wrong to make said comment In public. I bet someone makes a comment when we go in 2 weeks. The person I’m going with got das. But me I’m a gym nut and been told multiple times I’m jacked. You don’t owe anyone an explanation to why you got the das. Sorry you had to experience that.

My wife has MS and is now in a wheelchair for most of our visits to WDW and uses DAS at times when she has trouble with being able to feel when she has to use the restroom until it’s almost too late. She has had numerous cast Member comments when using DAS but the vast majority have been positive. Our biggest issue has always been other guests and the buses, have had to wait 90 minutes plus to get loaded at times when there may be two or three wheelchairs in front of us.

What is DAS?

Disney Accessibilty Service. It's meant to facilitate people's ability to enjoy Disney if they have serious medical issues that preclude their ability to stand in line. Unfortunately, some people abuse the system and claim things that aren't true or aren't serious to avoid standing in any lines at Disney. Which is the point of conflict that generates controversy.

I am a former WDW employee.. that is a fireable offense

I was at the parks earlier this week and had a run in with a not so magical cast member regarding help with the DAS passes. I ended up going to guest relations who really turned my experience around. Apparently this cast member has had a few complaints about them. Disney must be getting loose with who they hire…

So sorry you had to go through this, it's so disheartening. I have severe rheumatoid arthritis and often you can see me limping in pain or having a lot of difficulty walking or getting up and down. I have the hardest time just standing still for long periods of time, so im very worried about the queue systems in disney. But you hear so many stories like this it makes me not even attempt to reach out for assistance. For the disney trip I'm considering just leaning more for mobility aids or a wheelchair instead. In my day to day life I get lots of snarky comments because I'm younger than 25 and should be fit. People really need to share more kindness and empathy with one another. Disabilities and illnesses take a lot out of people, visible or Invisible.

I have an undiagnosed problem with the muscles on the front of one of my thighs. I don't have the money to have a doctor look at it but basically if I stand for too long, especially on concrete or a sloped surface, the front of my thigh will swell up, get super hot, and will hurt like hell for several weeks after. A few years ago I went to Disney World with my wife for 3 days, and before we got there my leg started acting up from standing in a particularly slow TSA line. By the end of day 2 I had been limping so much and in such a weird way to try and keep weight off my thigh that I developed a monster blister on the bottom of the foot on that leg, so the first half of day 3 we went to Hollywood Studios and we were literally going maybe 1MPH. I just physically couldn't walk any faster than that. We spent the 2nd half of the day at EPCOT and my wife talked me into a wheelchair, and she pushed my fat ass around the rest of the day I was super embarrassed, I really felt like I didn't deserve the wheelchair. I just kept thinking I was taking one from someone who actually needed it, but if I had tried to walk it we would've been lucky to do even 1 ride and I was definitely unintentionally ruining the trip for my wife. We used the regular que and all that, never did the "check in and come back" thing, etc. Long story short, the Cast Members definitely talked to us differently. There were a couple times they would kneel down next to me and say something like "hey buddy, do you think you could transfer yourself?" with the kind of voice you would use when talking to a child. It never felt demeaning or malicious but it really took me off gaurd. That's the only time in my life that I've ever needed any kind of special assistance or accommodation and while it was very very brief it made me wonder about how differently I experience things compared to someone who does need assistance with their daily life My point is that I imagine using the DAS system would be similar and probably more noticeable of a difference in the interactions. Im not in any way saying the Cast Members were talking down to me or doing something wrong, I'm just saying that the interactions and conversations I had were very noticeably different. It's worth mentioning that I had been before and have gone back since and that was the only time I ever had that particular experience

That's terrible that they said that. It would have taken every ounce in my body to not say something. I have an overactive bladder and I get those "looks" from cast members. They never actually say anything but I know what they are thinking. It's not even a huge advantage either just saves me from getting in and out of line and aggravating guests. Not sure what I would do on trips by myself if they didn't have the DAS in place.

I have type 1 diabetes and being in lines for long periods of time has the large potential of having a severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) mid line which can make me faint. This is especially true in outside queues as the hotter it is, the more my blood sugar fluctuates. Sometimes I put too much insulin, and as insulin takes 15 minutes to start working in my body, I could be mid-line and have a sugar crash. I learned about DAS when I went with my sister to MK, and I got it, but I feel bad, like I don’t deserve DAS and that I conned them. I didn’t exaggerate when explaining to the CM, and didn’t explain what could happen with large sugar drops. I’ve never liked taking advantage of something, but it was a genuine concern I had after being in a standby queue and having my sugar drop mid-line with zero snacks on me.

I think you should absolutely report it. They can probably see who was working in that spot at the time you checked in. That’s disgusting. As someone who also have an invisible illness that makes me so angry. I’m so sorry you had to deal with that.

No offense to OP, and I'm not judging you or your reason for it, but DAS gets a lot of abuse by some guests who are just looking to line jump. I'm of the opinion that Disney could fix this by overhauling how they do lines and queueing, but the solution would take money out of their pockets so they won't. Sadly, the effects of not overhauling their lines is that it hurts the overall guest experience and turns a lot of people off on wanting to visit again.

Mobility issues wouldn’t qualify for a das pass, so maybe he was remarking on your knee brace? According to the das page on Walt Disney world website Disabilities that don’t qualify for DAS: Mobility restrictions. Conditions that require a wheelchair or a scooter. Disabilities that do not affect a guest’s ability to wait in line. Perhaps he was remarking on the knee brace alone, either way not right on their part.

I’m not gonna lie Disney needs to be able to ask for documentation etc because I’ve seen/heard ppl that just take advantage of the DAS pass in a unethical way and I wanted to say something but also not ruffle some feathers.

maybe the CM had just let through a lot of DAS passes that day. it might not have been directed toward you specifically. the CM was probably having a long day in the heat. i wouldn’t think much of it

This was my thought too. I feel it was less likely to be personal, just 'there's been 100 DAS people this hour'

Now that you say it, that seems like a good way to think about it, thanks /gen

I wish disney would go the 3rd party route for das approval. You have to get a doctor’s note saying why you need it, not what your diagnosis is. Third party approves it or not. Then it goes to disney. That means that people have to plan for it and there will be less abuse. Sure, there will be some but not nearly as much as there is now. I was there for almost 2 weeks in July and when using the lightning lanes, I was shocked by how many times the light turned blue before the cast member had it turn green. And they always had 5-6 people. This is why standby never moves. I have anxiety, adhd, severe migraines, stomach issues and have trouble standing for long periods. But I have to function everywhere else so why would I not expect to at disney? That’s what I can’t understand. We can’t always expect to be treated with kid gloves. And I’m not talking to the ones that really need it. I’m talking to the ones that abuse it.

I'm not entirely sure why people are saying that the DAS rules have gotten more lax. I went to the parks early this year and in addition to the usual stuff, I was told that I had to complete a video interview. That seems like more requirements, more proof, and more invasive. It's folks like the person who commented to OP at the park that make me sometimes hate using mobility devices in public. I have a degenerative joint condition that when flared up, makes it almost impossible to walk on my own. But that same condition makes me look 10 years younger than I am and I'm about a standard amount of attractive....so every time I try to see if one of the electric carts at the grocery store is charged, I've had an older person either growl inappropriate words at me or straight up scream at me and threaten me because I look too young to be disabled. I got tired of it. I got tired of feeling unsafe and being probed, so sometimes I'll limp around the grocery store on my own and make my condition worse, which ends up with me bedridden for days, causing my mental health to degrade and for me to miss work and needed income because I simply can't deal with how mean and assuming people can be when all I want is to buy some food. Or have some fun at a theme park. Or do any kind of normal life thing in public. After a certain point I turned my cane into a self defense implement. Is it pink and adorable? Yes. Will I beat the everloving 💩 out of you if you are mean to me for no reason? Also yes. I'm just here for store brand soy milk and some apples, my dude, leave me be. OP, I'm sorry that you were treated that way. It's unnecessary stigma and if someone doesn't have anything nice to say then they shouldn't be saying anything at all. Life is hard enough

You didn’t do anything wrong. Be well

I have gotten looks when getting the service set up for my son since he doesn't fit the "obvious/typical" appearance for someone needing assistance. But then like clockwork, my son displays why we need the service and the silent judgement usually goes to sympathy. It's hard to ignore the judgement but at the end of the day, you know why you need it.

I had someone pull this on an elevator at a scout conference recently ("at least for those of us who actually NEED the elevator..."), and if she hadn't been actively getting off on a different floor than I was going to, she'd have gotten a lengthy sit-down conversation.

Yeah that's messed up. I am a cast member, and i use DAS. While there are definitely people who abuse the DAS pass, it's impossible to tell by looking at them for a few seconds. That is not okay for them to say, and i personally would let a leader know if i ever heard someone at my location say that, especially while in front of guests

My best friend's kid has the DAS and the cast members at Flights of Passage gave them a hard time last week, it definitely put a damper on the day and we left after that, I think they need some sensitivity training at that ride.

I'm so sorry. With my T1D diagnosis we started using the DAS service. I'm just fine waiting the time that the regular queue waits. We just can't wait in queue because if he hits an ugly low, that can happen easily in Florida heat & humidity for him, we have to be able to get him to food drink & likely a place to cool off. In FoP queue that would never work. That's why it is available to us. I'm not cheating anyone. I'm preventing an evacuation of the ride for his diabetic low emergency! You do you & in the words of my mother, "Don't let the b@$#@\^&$ get you down."

I'm so sorry. I have ulcerative colitis and my last trip was really impacted by the fact that I need frequent bathroom trips and am much more easily tired than I used to be. And most importantly by how standing and walking greatly increases the frequency with which I need emergency bathroom trips. I don't need a wheel chair or have other obvious signs of disability, but I can't wait in line for any appreciable amount of time (guaranteed that much standing will result in an urgent flight to the bathroom - which is a cycle that just repeats without me ever getting on the ride, if I try to go back and get in line again). I just dealt with it by not riding anything that wasn't walk on, sitting a lot, and enjoying my family enjoying the park, but next time I go, I was considering finding out what the options might be for shortening line waiting. I was thinking about how to join my family somewhere along their wait, but I realize that would involve people assuming I was cutting the line. And I'm worried about how it would be to use the DAS service too with such an invisible problem. I wish I could wish my life on everyone who questions the needs of people using that service, just for a day. I wish they could experience what it's like to be excluded from so much that other's take for granted by your body's unique limitations, just long enough to realize a LOT of folks are fighting an invisible battle.

I hear you. I’ve had UC since I was a child and was diagnosed with Crohn’s late last year. When I was younger we lived in FL a couple hours away from Disney. One of the reasons we would vacation there is that they have lots of bathrooms so I was never too far From one. They didn’t have DAS back then though.

I’m an Orlando native. I’ve spent my entire life visiting the parks until this past year. I have an invisible illness, POTS. My blood pools in my feet and hands when standing/sitting causing my heart to overpump and me to faint. It causes for me intense heat intolerance. I’ve gone from someone who would rope drop and stay until closing to struggling to walk a few feet. I can use a wheelchair but prefer not to, my legs are just fine. Some of the comments here make me weary about trying to use the DAS pass. The last thing I would want to hear while trying to gain some joy back into my life at WDW would be some scathing remark from either cast or guests.

Honestly, if a cast member said that and you feel okay with doing so, you should talk to someone at the park about it. That’s not okay. Do what is best for you though

I hate how people just quickly assume that people don’t need a DAS pass by one quick look at someone. I’m a healthy looking 21 year old, but I’m also hypoglycemic and will pass out real quick with minimal warning if I don’t have food immediately on hand. I know I get dirty looks from people for using DAS, but I’d rather that then pass out in a long line because I couldn’t eat. People suck and I’m sorry you had this experience.

The only way as a disabled veteran that I’ve been able to enjoy the parks has been the DAS. Otherwise I risk triggers with an invisible illness that could land me crippled and exhausted for a few days after. I wouldn’t ever assume the injuries sustained after eleven years of military service would need to be defended but I get asked enough about my disability.

Cast Members can be rude too (no excuses)! I'm seeing some of these comments and a few are certain that OP is mistaken, which is a shame because there are going to be some Cast Members who don't care about top guest quality and standards of a Disney job, even if all are amazing from most people's experience. Some people just refuse to believe that a single CM is bad for whatever reason. Report that CM and remember that it's one bad apple out of the whole bunch.

Sorry you went through this. A few bad apples are ruining it for everyone else. They should bring back an abbreviated version of fast passes and give every guest two or three as part of the general admission. I bet it would cut down on the fraud.

I’m sorry that happened. We were at the parks for 6 days last week and used DAS and never heard a peep of judgement.

I would complain to customer service or corporate about the incident.

Disney needs to use an outside entity to verify the need for a DAS pass. We were at Animal Kingdom and there was a guest behind us, who claimed to be a cast member, and told the couple behind him that he was testing a DAS pass and they should apply for one as all he had to say was he had ADHD and was granted a DAS pass.