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[Katara81]

Hope you all can help me, help my in-laws.

I have read the sticky about the GAC, but I'm still not sure if my FIL needs one for our upcoming trip. He had back surgery last year that still gives him a lot of pain. He can walk, but not for long periods. He has diabetes which gives him leg and foot problems, and he also wears an insulin pump. He is tenatively planning on renting a scooter from an off-site vendor. Would it still be a good idea for him to get the GAC? Does he even qualify for it, since he *can* walk and such?

Thanks for any info.

[Kynna]

I would get one if I were you. It takes minutes and at least you would have it if you need it. I believe he would qualify. At least he would be able to sit down while he waits for some attractions.

[Eeyore Tattoo]

He will be able to stay on his scooter for most all rides up to the time he gets on. There are a few exceptions like POTC.
He should be OK without one. But I have a disclaimer..
I use a ECV & had trouble navigating some ques and asked to use the "handicapped entrance" While most cast members had no problem with that I did run into a few that gave me trouble. I did get a GAC stamped "Use Handicapped entrance" & only needed to show it 2 times the rest of my trip..

[Katara81]

Great, thank you both for the comments! He says he thinks he will be fine to just park the scooter and wait in line with the rest of us. The concern I had was what you mentioned EeyoresTattoo, that he would need one to use the handicapped entrance. I've never had occasion to learn anything about the GAC before, so I'm glad to have a little more knowledge about it now. Thanks again!

[Teresa]

Originally Posted by Katara81

He says he thinks he will be fine to just park the scooter and wait in line with the rest of us.

I would still advise you to get a GAC. Sometimes the wait for attractions can exceed an hour. Standing and slowly walking through the queue for that long can be really hard for anyone, let alone someone who has difficulties.

[Sandra Bostwick]

Hi there! It is so nice of you to be thinking ahead for your FIL. In addition to the comments on the GAC, there are some other tips you might like to consider.

First of all, know what the doctor suggests and try to encourage your FIL to follow the Doc's instructions.

I think that planning ahead so you see as much as possible with as few steps as possible (use your PassPorter) and planning rest breaks will be very important.

Consider the time of year you'll be visiting, since hot weather can be a problem for some and rainy weather will be a problem for others.

If the diabetes is a problem, I would be very careful about doing any more walking than is in his usual routine. Also, be sure to inspect for foot blisters at the end of the day, especially if your FIL has decreased sensation.

The Open Mouse has quite a few suggestions that might help your FIL.

I hope you all have a magical time!