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View Full Version : the problem with MYW plans...



Lori Anne
06-21-2008, 04:51 PM
UG!! drives me nuts!! Our daughter is 13 years old, non-verbal, no purposeful movement, has seizures, is visually impaired, AND is fed formula thru a g-tube, but because she travels to WDW with us, she HAS to be on the magic you way dining plan!!! I can understand the tickets, etc.. but why dosen't disney have an accomodation for people like rachel, where we are spending a couple hundred extra bucks for food she cannot eat!!! AARRGGHH!! thanks for letting me vent!! anyone else run into this???
Lori.

mouseketeer mom
06-21-2008, 05:32 PM
You've got to be kidding! There MUST be some way around this issue. Perhaps someone who has experience with this can help further. I can't understand how this can be the case in your particular situation!! Hope someone comes around to offer some good advice for you.

gerald72
06-21-2008, 06:32 PM
Why don't you just not get the dining plan. The point of it is to save money. It doesn't fit in with everyone's plans.

sisterdisco
06-21-2008, 07:11 PM
Have you tried speaking w/ Disney's Disability Specialist? This would be someone who would assist in answering accessibility questions. I pulled these phone numbers off the disneyworld.com website under disability access
General Information: Voice: 407-824-4321 TTY: 407-827-5141

Resort Reservations: 407-939-7807 (TTY: 407-939-7670)


I would try there. I would also keep trying until I got a different answer. It is ridiculous for you to have to pay for a dining plan for one family member who cannot take food by mouth.

Good Luck and I hope it works out.

merlinmagic4
06-21-2008, 08:12 PM
Wow, I can't believe that! It is absolutely absurd. Have you spoken to anyone at WDW? I can't imagine they wouldn't work with you on this one. Let us know what happens.

Oh, and welcome from a fellow Cape Codder (although I seem to remember welcoming you before this!). :mickey:

TheRustyScupper
06-22-2008, 09:38 AM
1) I am sure it has to do with continuity.
2) If exceptions are made, where do they stop?
3) How bad does someone have to be for an exception?
4) It could get pretty mired.

DawsonAR
06-22-2008, 09:43 AM
We are basically in the same position with our DD. We just don't purchase the dining plan. I wish there was another way, but there isn't that I'm aware of.

MsMin
06-22-2008, 11:16 AM
I think there should be exceptions. Can you ask that they feed her? Ask if they provide a trained nurse and supplies to feed her since they are charging for her meals. How do they intend to feel her b/c they are charging for it so you should get the service.
Maybe they just figure that you can use the extra points on other family members.
If they make you pay then you should get something for it.

Georgesgirl1
06-22-2008, 09:05 PM
I can't imagine Disney wouldn't make an exception in your case. I mean we are not just talking about a kid with picky eating habits or allergies, this is a child who can't eat the food, and I would be disappointed in Disney if they didn't make this right for you!?

I would definetly call the disability specialist someone else talked about. Let us know what you find out.

Good luck...

Puppy Mom
06-22-2008, 10:35 PM
1) I am sure it has to do with continuity.
2) If exceptions are made, where do they stop?
3) How bad does someone have to be for an exception?
4) It could get pretty mired.

Wow! That is a bit harsh don't you think.

I think it is ridiculous to expect a family to pay for food for a child that is incapable of eating. That sounds VERY un-Disneylike to me.

ElenitaB
06-22-2008, 10:37 PM
I think this is pretty cut-and-dry. She receives all her nutrition though her g-tube, therefore, will not partake of anything through the dining plan. Please check with Disney's disability team. They will be able to give you a definitive answer.

Please let us know what happens.

Lori Anne
06-23-2008, 11:04 AM
Thank you so much for your suggestions! I had no idea there even WAS a disability specialist!! We sent most of her consumable supplies down ahead of time, and worked great!! The medical company (care medical) put supplies we rented from them in the room, and we were all ready to go!! (bath chair, extra suction machine, trach supplies, etc...) We are not planning to go till last few days of Nov. '09, but knowing there is someone to talk to at Disney about this, is really cool!! Oh- I went to disney florist web site, and they have a tiara on a pretty pillow, (albiet pricey!!!!!) that could be delivered to a special location while we are there.. I was thinking during lunch at the Cinderelle Castle... what do you all think?? She was granted a wish when she was three, not through make a wish tho, they said "she was too scrambled to appreciate anthing.." and had a wonderful time! she has been once since, and now that she is 14, every time we get to go with her is super special! I want to "do it up" for her!! :) will also bring a little tabletop tree, and mini decorations, and window clings to add to the festivites!! oohh!!! getting excited!!! :mickey: any body have any other ideas???
lori.

sisterdisco
06-23-2008, 10:11 PM
Lori,
I have been anxiously awaiting......did you call and get anywhere w/ the disability specialist?
I hope so....
Please let us know!

Lori Anne
06-25-2008, 08:08 PM
ug! we're all sick here! summer colds are gross!! I was thinking of calling in August, when the 2009 rates are out. Do you think that's a better idea?? Since we won't be going till the end of then anyhoo. anyone else planning to go then???? I am sitting here by the living room window, wishing someone would stop by and buy the kiyak for sale in my front yard!!! :D have great night!
Lori.

sisterdisco
06-25-2008, 09:59 PM
Hope you all feel better.
PM me when you find out.
Lori

gerald72
06-26-2008, 08:05 AM
Let us know what the verdict turns out to be.
I'm not trying to be harsh, but like other people said, if they give you an exception, where do they draw the line? Some people are allergic to foods, some people are just picky and won't eat anything.
Oh, I think the tiara idea is great. I might even do that one.

chick20679
06-26-2008, 08:58 AM
I'm not trying to be harsh, but like other people said, if they give you an exception, where do they draw the line? Some people are allergic to foods, some people are just picky and won't eat anything.


I think the line would be, if you CAN' T (rather than won't) eat on the dining plan, then there should be an exception.

I would imagine Disney must have some sort of procedure already in place for this situation.

Let us know what you find out. :mickey:

Puppy Mom
07-05-2008, 01:02 PM
I am just guessing here, but doesn't the Americans with Diabilities ACt require that accomodations be made by businesses for disabled people?

minnie1956
07-08-2008, 09:17 PM
I believe the ADA is meant for physical accommodations and accesibility. I don't believe it was ever intended to cover a vacation package. I think it would be very nice for Lori to let everyone know what really happens after she talks to the disability specialist down there. Disney generally is top of the line when it comes to assisting folks. I just can't believe that they would intentionally hose a guest.
PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT HAPPENS!

bkfree
07-10-2008, 02:34 PM
I have a special need son and a FIL and mother that are in wheelchairs, so I am very cognizant of the issues associated with this.

I agree that a person that is tube fed should be the exception to the rule.
I can also see how some may find ways to abuse this loophole. When you make the ressie, they would really have no way of knowing if your were being truthful or just did not want to pay it for one of the family members.

I think that they could require you to purchase it, then when you checked in and they saw the individual in person, they could credit the amount back to you for that person's portion of the DDP.

BUT, easier I think is this. Since she is 13 and you would have to pay the adult portion, it is financially better to just forgo the DDP for the rest of you this trip.
BUT, maybe once you arrive- you can speak to someone in the know about this issue and maybe they could add it for the rest of you or at least explain to your face why your tube fed daughter would be required to purchase it.

Hopefully, you were able to talk to the individual posted above and can post here what became of that conversation.

Lori Anne
07-10-2008, 02:38 PM
ok, I just called disney, and spoke to a disability specialist, and she said that it really isn't that much to have her added to the MYW package, it's only $39. a day! (well it's a big deal if you don't have it!!) anyhoo, she also said that if we did not want to add her, we could make our reservations as normal, just not add her at all, then two weeks before arriving, call the Magical Express transportation, give them our booking number, and explain the situation, and HOPEFULLY they will get it, and send a wheelchair accessible bus for her! she agreed with me, that the policy dosen't make much sense, I'd almost rather have her on the plan, just to avoid a hassle of them "having no record of her!" which is essentially what will happen! we will show up, and they will have no record of her coming, and what about the medical supplies being shipped down in her name? will they be refused, because "she's not coming???" ug. we're just supposed to show up at the resort, and buy her theme park tickets there. I'm not really comfortable with all that mess!!!! so, that is what happened!
Lori. :confused:

chicade88
07-10-2008, 03:41 PM
I'm kind of confused here. Is it even possible for you not to put her on your reservation at all? Surely they need to know that she'll be in the room at the resort for fire code reasons if nothing else. Did the specialist say if there's a way to put her on the reservation and the rest of the MYW package with you, just not on the dining plan itself?

wdwfansince75
07-10-2008, 05:03 PM
I know that this small problem is certainly not the toughest problem you and your family face from day to day, and I know that since you obviously have the strength to deal with the tougher issues, you will be able to deal with this.

In determining whether to buy the MYW plan, consider the following.....If it is just the three of you, your party would receive 3 TS credits, 3 CS credits, and 3 snack credits per night of your stay. The credits are assigned to the party, not to the individuals. Disney does not care who uses the credits, or when they use them. (Although they do expire if not used by your last day.)

The resturants will only charge you for meals ordered. Each time the 3 of you visit a TS resturant, since you will not order a meal for her, you will be charged only 2 TS credits. Therefore, you and DH can plan extra TS meals each over several days, use 2 credits each for signature meals, such as Cali Grill or Brown Derby.


You should still do the math to see if it makes sense for you. Don't pay for meals you don't want, or won't enjoy.

Here we go again...
07-11-2008, 02:44 AM
1) I am sure it has to do with continuity.
2) If exceptions are made, where do they stop?
3) How bad does someone have to be for an exception?
4) It could get pretty mired.


Wow! That is a bit harsh don't you think.

I think it is ridiculous to expect a family to pay for food for a child that is incapable of eating. That sounds VERY un-Disneylike to me.
Because theRustyScupper is with Disney he sees people abuse the system on a daily basis. I agree that this is the exception, and common sense says a doctor's note should do the trick.
But, like other situations, friend of doctors have them write fake notes all the time... and this causes the problem.
As for TheRustyScupper seeming unDisney like... well, he calls it like he sees it. He will not get into arguments, just states his opinion. This is a discussion board and that is what is it for.

I think the line would be, if you CAN' T (rather than won't) eat on the dining plan, then there should be an exception.

I would imagine Disney must have some sort of procedure already in place for this situation.

Let us know what you find out. :mickey:
I hope so...
After reading the follow up post I really do not like the solution though. To leave her off the reservation would mean that she could not get the MYW tickets on the room. And, it could cause other problems down the line. What about EMH? If she is not on the reservation she will not have a key to get into the park.


I am just guessing here, but doesn't the Americans with Diabilities ACt require that accomodations be made by businesses for disabled people?
Yes, it does. It does not state that your family can book a family dining plan that requires all members listed in the group to purchase the dining plan to exclude someone. The family can opt out of the dining plan. If the plan was required for all family members to enter the park then they would have to accomodate someone with a disability.

One thing to keep in mind here is that the dining plan is only worth the money if you are eating at very expensive restaurants. Now that we have to pay our own tips, it is not much of a value at all.
I agree with the other posters that said you should look at the cost of the plan to see if it will benefit your family.

Please let us know what happens. And I hope you have a wonderful trip.

MsMin
07-11-2008, 10:13 AM
I believe the ADA is meant for physical accommodations and accesibility.
The accessibility law states that they are required to provide the same experience. I don't know of anything in the law that covers charges for something. I would put their feet to the fire with asking them to feed her since you are paying for it.
I'm not impressed with the answer from Disability Services. Can you call them back and say.. I'm paying for her meals and this is what she requires to eat... If you like we can remove her from the meal plan or what are you going to do to feed my child... here is what she needs.
I wonder if the person that you spoke to had the skills to resolve this. Call back put them on the spot and if they don't know what to do then ask for a supervisor.
If you don't have her on the ressie that could cause all kinds of problems as Angel mentioned. IMO that's not a satisfactory answer...
IMO if you are paying for something then they need to provide a service for it... not just oh well.... :pixie: I'm sure they don't want me on the phone...

Hayden's Dad
07-11-2008, 10:46 AM
Quote:
Originally Posted by TheRustyScupper
1) I am sure it has to do with continuity.
2) If exceptions are made, where do they stop?
3) How bad does someone have to be for an exception?
4) It could get pretty mired.

Wow! That is a bit harsh don't you think.

I think it is ridiculous to expect a family to pay for food for a child that is incapable of eating. That sounds VERY un-Disneylike to me.

I have to agree with Puppy Mom here. And I am not trying to start something, but when it comes to the defense of children who cannot defend themselves someone has to do it and it is obvious that the Rusty Scupper has not been blessed in life with a special little angel as Lori and myself have. As much as my son and other children like him have given up in life they deserve to be given an exception.

Anyway back to the subject I am really shocked about Disney's stance on this. If the individual CANNONT (not is making the choice not to eat, but physically cannot) eat the food being provided then why should we have to pay for it. We have been fortunate enough for this not to be an issue with my son since he is under 3, but he turns 3 in January and is fed with a G-tube it makes no sense that we should have to pay for food he is not going to be able to eat. They have been so accomadating with most everything else when it comes especially to children with special needs why be so insistent in this situation. Sorry for the rant, but what can I say it is frustrating.

Lori Anne
07-11-2008, 03:35 PM
Disney did say we could leave her off the entire reservation, (except for the plane! :) and just check her in when we get there and buy her park tickets. but you are right, she would not be on the magic your way plan with us. I'm just going to avoid a big headache, and just put her on the whole plan with us. that will just mean we get one extra snack per day! :number1: will also help if we eat at a place that takes 2 sit-down allowances per person. I don't want the headache of a problem like, "we don't have her on your reservation............." we also have to ship down medical supplies, and we use an orlando company for back-up machines, and they have to be delivered in her name too. I'm just gonna avoid problems, and just add her! we did it last time, and had no trouble, just the extra expense is pretty dumb!!!oh well!! maybe down the road they'll have this stuff figured out!! thank you all for your imput!! :mickey:
Lori. (we're bringing my mom-in-law too!) she is SO great! we will rent a wheelchair for her, as she as "new hips!"

bkfree
07-11-2008, 04:07 PM
Lori,
AS the Mom of an autistic son, it helps when we learn when it is worth the trouble to fight the system.
It has taken me 9 years to learn that lesson.
Most times the world is very accomodating to us and at other times we must carve out ways to accomodate the world.
I guess this is one of those times.
You are right to look at it as a chance to try out some of the 2TS places, we never have and I look forward to the day that we can.
I think it is very perceptive at this point to take a positive attitude as not to detract from the magic of Disney, go with the flow and have some great gastronomical times as a "perk" to this situation.

My son has some intense SID issues when it comes to food. Other's may look at it like, well he COULD eat so and so if he wanted. Well , not really. His brain and neuroreflexes really don't let him. Believe us, we and he has tried.
So I did stress over some of the Kids menus on the DDP last trip.And lamented on why we were required to include him, it would have been so easier to find what he wanted OOP.
But, I guess the fairy dust was in place. We found things he would eat or the CM was very accomodating or we stopped by and got what he would eat and took it to the TS with us and all went well.
I should have saved all those sleepless nights, and stress and worrying about it and adopted a positive attitude before we went.
I hope that you do eat at some of the signature places and really enjoy it, some Magic from your daughter to Mom and Dad.
And tell us about them when you return.:tink:

biodtl
07-11-2008, 10:18 PM
Wow - I am surprised that there isn't a way to work this. It seems like a no-brainer to me that since she physically can't eat, that she should be exempt from the MYW rule.

That said, I agree with wdwfansince75 - I would use her meal credits and have some great meals - 2TS meals, etc that I don't usually do, dinner shows, having all three meals covered on certain days. We usually have to go OOP for some meals when we use the dining plan, so I would just look at it as a way of prepaying and not having to use spending money for meals. But I still would be frustrated, though.

chick20679
07-12-2008, 07:19 AM
In determining whether to buy the MYW plan, consider the following.....If it is just the three of you, your party would receive 3 TS credits, 3 CS credits, and 3 snack credits per night of your stay. The credits are assigned to the party, not to the individuals. Disney does not care who uses the credits, or when they use them. (Although they do expire if not used by your last day.)
The resturants will only charge you for meals ordered. Each time the 3 of you visit a TS resturant, since you will not order a meal for her, you will be charged only 2 TS credits. Therefore, you and DH can plan extra TS meals each over several days, use 2 credits each for signature meals, such as Cali Grill or Brown Derby.

Lori Anne, I hope this posters idea works for you.
Since you are including Rachel in the reservation, and are (therefore) forced to pay for the DDP for her, then you should definitely eat at some signature restaurants and you or your hubby (or MIL)can use her credits. Since they will be adult credits, any one of you can use them as you see fit. That seems like the best option at this point. (It will be alot of food, but the extra credits should lower your out-of-pocket for the other adults, since you'll have the extra credits that you could use towards breakfast and such).

I still think it's absolutely crazy that there isn't an exception for this already in existence, but at least if you have to pay for the DDP for Rachel, you'll be getting more of your money's worth?

Hope you have an amazing trip! :mickey:

alaMode
07-12-2008, 11:21 AM
Hi!
My son also relies on a g-tube to receive his nutrition. He does enjoy dining out and having his own plate and "participating" in the meal. He especially enjoys buffets and choosing food to "try."
He's 8, so we get the child's dining plan for him. We usually end up using his meal and snack credits for breakfast because IMO that's the only child's meal that's edible. When we are eating at a buffet, he uses his credit for himself.
I know it's kind of a waste of money (not to mention food!) but I pay for the convenience factor.
Thanks to the GAC, the "stroller=wheelchair" sticker, ADRs, and the MYW package, all we have to do is show up and let the fun begin!
For me, that's priceless!
That said, I'd like to see WDW be more flexible w/ the dp for people who truly can't eat. IMO, it would be the right thing to do!
Tess
Poly 07, 08
taking a non-disney cruise in 2009 (not my decision!)
Can't wait to go back in 2010!