What attitidues/stares am I going to run into...

[ILoveMyGirls]

when using an ECV at Disney World? i am renting one from an outside company. we will have a rental car so we won't need to deal with the buses as the women in the other post is talking about. after reading her post i am very nervous about this as i am to the point that there is no way i can walk thru the park anylonger and don't want to ruin the trip for my kids.

how does using an ECV and being handicapped affect riding on the rides?

how many stares will i get from people?

i was told there is no problem riding the ECV onto the monorail, is this true?

 

[peemagg]

I say don't get yourself all worked up about people staring. In fact if they do let them. I found that more often than not I was not seen. I think when on my ECV I become invisible because people walk into me and in front of me and act as if I am not there. I have used mine (by the way I'm only 41) for the last 2 years and can't remember one comment or stare. I am there to enjoy myself and not worry about what others think.

Yes you can take your ECV on the monorail without any problem.

Just go and have fun for yourself and your family and the others can just mind their own business.

 

[Bete]

I would say the good outweighs the bad.

I won't do the monorails. You are dependent on the ramps to get in and out of it. A CM has to be present for this to occur. Sometimes getting off can be a hassle; because, a CM could be hard to get for the ramp. I prefer the ferry for MK and the buses or car for Epcot. It feels too crowded for me on the monorail inclines, as well. I don't like the inclines up to the monorails from TTC; I find them a little steep. Some scooters are not built well to take hills (inclines) and such. It wears down the battery more, too.

I've never had anyone stare, but it could be an age and weight thing. If you are heavy and young you may get stared at; there's a predujice of sorts in my opinion that way. If you're a senior citizen it seems to be better that way. It's not right, but I could see that happening in some scenarios. Maybe, others will chime in and disagree. Personally, I wouldn't care. If it helps me enjoy Disney more that's all that would count for me.

For the rides you will normally take the same queue lines and you will park it pretty close to the ride and then you need to get on and off the ride on your own accord. If necessary, you can transfer into a wheelchair and some rides will take the wheelchair on board. There are some rides like Buzz and Toy Story where you go in a special line towards the end.

 

[bouncy54]

I use a scooter everywhere these days. Walmart, Grocery Stores, Zoos..etc. I was bothered by the looks at first, but not anymore. It's such a blessing to be able to do things with my family without being in constant pain and the family appreciates that they don't have to wait for me while I rest every 5 minutes.

I went to visit my daughter in the hospital today and my granddaughter insisted on borrowing a wheelchair to push me up to her mother's room. I felt kind of weird at first because I wasn't a patient, but when I found out how far I would have had to walk to get there, I was so grateful that she had insisted.

Maybe you could try using the scooters in your local stores so you can get used to them. I only shop in a stores that provide them for their customers. It just isn't worth the pain not to.

 

[bouncy54]

I forgot... Using a scooter has made our Disney vacations truly The Happiest Place On Earth for me. I used one when visiting Epcot in 2005 and it turned out to be the best day of our entire vacation. At the time, it was my feet and angina caused by a blocked artery that was causing me the problems...now it's also my back.

We went to DL last summer and I can truly say it was the very best vacation I have ever had. The joy I felt being free to come and go as I pleased without pain was priceless. All the attractions were so accessible and the CMs so helpful and courteous. Not once did I feel like some 2nd class citizen. It was wonderful!

 

[ILoveMyGirls]

Thanks so much for replying. If I can't use an EVC I won't be able to go as I am in that much pain. I just know rude people who don't know the chronic pain that I am in will stare at me. I'm going to try and ignore it so it won't ruin our trip as I so want to be able to go with my husband and girls. It's so sad when I can join in on activities because of the pain I am in.

As far as I know we can't take the ferry, aren't the ferries only for people staying on Disney property?

 

[ratlenhum]

I don't use an ECV but I do push my 8 year old (who is the size of an average 10 year old) around in a stroller. Don't worry about what other people think. If they were focusing on their own kids, family and fun they wouldn't even notice you!

Just don't run people over or beep your horn incessantly like that lady on youtube and you'll be okay.

Enjoy your trip!

 

[ILoveMyGirls]

someone on youtube did that? that is rude in and of itself.

i don't even go to the grocery store because i can't. i just hope i can ignore stares as i don't want to start crying because of rudeness. don't worry i won't be tooting at everyone like a fool. lol.

 

[traveljunkie2]

When you go the Magic Kingdom, you park at what is called the Ticket and Transportation Center. If you have a disabled placard, you will park relatively close, but you still have to ride your ECV under a bridge a ways. Then you have two choices for getting the MK. You either take the monorail or the ferry. My mom had an ECV and found the ferry to be much easier than the monorail. There are no narrow ramps to deal with, you don't have to worry about waiting for an attendant to bring a ramp, you don't have to back out. I think the ferry is a much simpler option. When we took the monorail, it actually took longer than the ferry because we stopped at two resorts, then the monorail kept stopping, waiting for other trains to unload.

 

[bouncy54]

Thanks so much for replying. If I can't use an EVC I won't be able to go as I am in that much pain. I just know rude people who don't know the chronic pain that I am in will stare at me. I'm going to try and ignore it so it won't ruin our trip as I so want to be able to go with my husband and girls. It's so sad when I can join in on activities because of the pain I am in.

As far as I know we can't take the ferry, aren't the ferries only for people staying on Disney property?

We didn't stay on property on our last visit and aren't this time either. We're renting a vacation home.

Anyone who has a ticket for the parks is welcome to use all of WDW's transportation. So yes... you can use the ferry.

 

[ILoveMyGirls]

You all are great, this is extremely useful info. for me. I so love the Magic Kingdom, not sure how many more trips I can make due to my condition but I'd like to make this trip wonderful for myself and my family. I had no clue we could take the ferry!!!!

 

[LuluLovesDisney]

Don't worry about it. As long as you know how to drive it, you will be fine. The advice about the ramp on the monorail is true. You have to wait until the monorail CM brings the ramp, which can be faster or slower dep on crowds and CMs. If youve never driven one, though, do go to Walmart or somewhere to try and practice. In a crowded area if you reverse instead of go forward accidentally people will definitely stare! I hope you have a great trip!!!

 

[lovetoscrap]

I really think that your attitude determines what kind of time you have. I am young --okay 40, so I'll go with not that old- and am overweight. After several surgeries for long term foot problems I am left with feet that are in constant pain. I really don't know how people view me and I think that is because I just don't care! I have never really been all that self conscious around people that I have never seen and will never see again.

I have a pretty positive attitude and usually have a smile and enjoy talking with people. I really haven't ever noticed any stares and looks. But I am also not looking. I am focusing on my family and friends -- well and mostly focusing on being a safe driver. I do have my meltdown moments when I get tired and frustrated and lose my positive outlook but usually a soda and a Mickey Bar perks me right up, particularly if enjoyed in the shade well away from others.

I really think that if you go in with a negative attitude, convinced that everyone is staring at you and making judgments and laughing then that is what you will see around you, even if that isn't happening. Really the majority of the people around couldn't care less about you. They are way to busy enjoying their own vacation, thinking about their next Mickey Bar, trying to figure out how to get to Space Mountain, in pain because of a big blister, and wondering if people are staring and laughing at their big thighs/bad hair/fading makeup/no tan etc...

You know, the funny thing is that we talk so much on the DIS about "invisible disabilities" but really, how many are visible? Sure you may see the elderly or those with obvious physical impairments but the overwhelming majority of people that are disABLEd don't have a sign that announces it to the world. Joint problems, back injuries, head injuries, MS, autism, cancer and all the other things that cause someone to need an ECV or wc don't come with a big stamp on our foreheads so the world will know. We know what is going on in our bodies and why we need the help. And those that love us do to and those are the only people who's opinions I care about.

Go and Have fun!!

 

[MandyMaloo]

I promise I am not trying to hijack this thread at all, but I've gotta say that I am very happy that the OP posted this question. I've been worrying about the same thing. Especially coming in from another thread where people on EVCs were being blamed for some pretty strange things, I feel like they are something people get REALLY worked up about- and I honestly don't understand why! Just because someone doesn't "look" sick doesn't mean that they're being lazy by wanting to make their vacation as pain-free as possible!

I'm really, really thankful that I've found this place. This community of people has really helped me.

To the OP- Sorry for the brief hijack- but I hope you enjoy your time!!

 

[Capt. Barbosa]

DW once toughed it out without her ECV, she gave in rented one off site the following year and has never looked back, it has made our trips so much better. And to quote Dr, Seuss "... because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind"

 

[Disneygranny1973]

Hey....Hakuna Matata....no worries about the ECV...I remember my first trip using one...it did feel weird, and you feel like you owe everyone and anyone that looks at you an explanation. But...YOU DON'T. Everyone there does something to contribute to their own comfort, be it a good pair of shoes, powder tween the toes, or a good pair of sunglasses...we just need an ECV to give us the level of comfort necessary to enjoy our vacation. I know that there are some people that have gripes about them, but hey, I don't particularily like some of the stuff that others do, but like I said...we're all there to have a good time. Just a few tips (humor intended)....you will have to be on guard at all times..forget just rolling along and enjoying any scenery that isn't directly in front of you...to do otherwise will result in running into someone, especially if they aren't aware of you and stop dead in their tracks without warning..lol. Keep your eyes open for that person that thinks they can make it across the street before you hit them...they usually don't..and you have to come to a complete stop which then leads to an overdone apology from them....and some complaints from those walking behind you that didn't see you come to that complete stop and run into the back of you.. But the best ones are the ones who are trying to take a picture and keep backing up trying to get as much of the scene as possible in the picture, totally unaware that they are actually walking against the crowd..and right into the path of you guessed it...your ECV. You see em coming..."Uh..Ma'am...Um...HELLO"....but it's too late...they've backed right into you....then turn around and look at you like you did something to them! I actually had one to come at me from the side, never saw her, she fell into my lap! It was an older lady, so actually I am glad I broke her fall! I haven't been the best driver either, i'll admit...but I do my best to be aware of my surrroundings..Just go, use your scooter, don't worry about what others think...try to be a courteous, defensive driver and you'll do fine!

 

[Cheshire Figment]

Please ask the following questions. Here are the suggested answers to go with them.

1. Are you disabled (even temporarily)? Yes.

2. Do the people you are traveling with, such as your family, know you are disabled? Yes.

3. Do you expect to meet anyone you know during this trip who may not know you are disabled. Probably No!

4. Do you expect to meet a bunch of people who you will probably never meet again in your life? Probably yes!

5. Is there any reason at all that you should care what these people think about you? Absolutely No!!

6. Will using a wheelchair or ECV make for a better vacation for you and your family? Absolutely YES!

 

[tww369]

Iv'e been renting an ECV for 66yo mother on Disney trips for the last three trips. We tried using wheelchairs for her and my medically disabled brother in 2006 for a family trip in August and made it till day 3 before "breaking down" and renting ECV's for them. After 3 days of pushing in the heat I was ready for wheelchair! ECV's are the only way to go. My mother dosen't ride her ECV while inside the shops/pavilions and such but when moving arround the parks it more that pays for itself in my opinion. We are heading back in June, Mom just finished her 2nd round of cancer treatment so this trips for her and yes she'll be riding. Mom had the same concerns the first time she used an ECV. All I can say is don't worry about it, You'll see alot of people are using them there.

 

[Holoshed]

I have been using an ECV for going on 4 years of going to Disney and I am 28 so the age part, yeah I get some stares but its only people who do not understand what may be wrong with you mostly. I have never had anyone be RUDE to me actually as a "normal" person thank goodness. Just a few flubs on the ride which I will get to in a moment.

I use one also at places like Walmart and the grocery store etc and I dont care if I see someone I know, most just dont even mention it.

Now we go to the crowd factor as I call it. I LOVE Disney as much as the next person but I have noticed the deer in headlight look from a lot of people as they walk around and I just laugh it off. The place is amazing so I give them a little slack in their "lost and dazed" walk. I really do wish people could find a way to look where they walk though and not to their side.

I would tell you first off do NOT worry about people looking at you, trust me, with so many people in carts you are NOT the one they really are looking at. There is so much COOL stuff around to gaze at and even if you are as pretty/handsome as a Hollywood movie star most people are busy looking for Mickey's and/or hidden Mickeys

I have always used the rule of leaving 2 or 3 person lengths in front of me when I drive so that the unexpected stop leaves me room to react. That is only challenged when (usually teenagers I've noticed) will jump in front of you so that they can get through faster. The jumpers will be a problem because as much as I hate it, I have only ever hit ONE person who just did not leave me any room. This woman was in her 80s though and I felt REALLY bad and told her I was so sorry multiple times but I had witnesses who assured me it was not my fault. I thank goodness for people with an outside perspective. She jumped in front of me and then it happened, I only caught the back of her foot before I stopped and she did not fall which I was thankful for. Her husband proceeded to cuss me ought, which is why outside witnesses stepped in to assure it was not done because of me being a reckless driver. I gave you that story to just give you a little of what can happen.

I will assure you that most of the CM for rides will be very happy and understanding, and even though the FAQ says you do not need the GAC, I have been ASKED for it multiple times even while on my scooter before I could pass.

The rides I can tell you from experience that may cause you some stride will be Space Mountain and PoTC. Both of those were not built with an "on stage" access for safe entry with an ECV. You will however be welcome to change to a WC if someone can push you. My problem is I have no one who can push me in and I had to have a CM walk me a much shorter access back stage to PoTC and well Space Mountain they just let me ride the ECV up into the ride but bad news there, there is VERY tight walkways and there is no "way out" that any manager could tell me so I had to have someone escort me down the fast pass line side I came up on. That worked fine till someone with a stroller was coming up and I could NOT let them pass by me because of the small ramp. They had to halt traffic on that side till I got out but it only took about 3-4 mins. Man that was one heck of a trip!

Also the HM ride, they seem to now want you to go through the normal queue then stop at the handicapped banner on a chain. I always used to just enter in the exit side and go in through the "Servants Quarters" then found it it is MUCH easier to just get on the ride at the exit side and you go around to where the other people load on. You even get to go through the "unthemed" back part where most people are already off. That part is fun for me lol.

As for rides, that is about the only extra advice of what usually puts a tiny hitch in the experience for me but everyone else's experience will be different.

I also will make an honorable mention that people with strollers in general and people who let their children walk in front or behind them unwatched will be hard because kids will walk right into your cart if you give them the chance. Since I do not expect kids to know better I stop the art and let them keep walking until they are just about to run into me then make sure they and their parents notice me and what "almost" happened. I do not see this as rude because I do not cause a scene or put down the child or endanger them in any way. I just want the parents to see why its SO important to watch their children! More times than I would like, people with strollers will jump in front like teenagers seem to do.

 

[Bete]

Try not to zig zag too much with the scooter. You can't go in a straight line through the park, but darting in and out of crowds with the scooter will probably lead to more incidents with hitting someone. Try to get your family to be helpful for you and warn other guests that you need to park for a parade, etc. and give you a little more room to do so. If you have a few tight spots that scare you or you don't like going in reverse with the scooter it may be better for a family member to do it for you. You can take over when it's better. You may not like some ride queues; because, they zig zag a lot. Again, it may be better to walk while someone else manuevers it for you. It will just depend on what rides and shows you do as to how hard it may be with doing a scooter. There is a little learning curve with the scooter. Most of it is easy. Often time in the The Land Pavillon in Epcot we will park the scooter and walk around there. It's a zoo there almost all of the time. This is the building where Soarin' is located. Soarin' is an extremely long ride queue and you may not want to walk for that ride. You will need to use an elevator for your scooter to get down on the lower level for it. The elevator is hard to find (it's in the back, near the Garden restaurant). It can be hard to drive in and out of an elevator with other people waiting for the elevator, too. This is the one case that I think having another person do the scooter for you is a better idea. If you are lucky and you go early and it's not as crowded you may want to try it, but otherwise let someone else do it; until, you gain more confidence with the scooter.

Going to the parks early is another key element to enjoying the parks more with a scooter. By early afternoon it's very crowded and will be harder. You will get more accomplished going early, too. Going early is being there for rope drop. To load and unload a scooter (outside rental) takes a while; so, plan accordingly.

If you are doing an outside rental make sure you charge the battery every night. Make sure you take the battery charger with you in the parks in case you run out of juice. Be diligent about shutting off the scooter when you are watching a show, parade, fireworks, etc. Your battery will last longer. If you do it correctly, your battery charge should last you all day. If you run into problems this way there are outside outlets in the parks to get recharged, but you will be waiting a while to get it going again.