A recent Disneyland visit turned out to be more challenging than anticipated for TikTok user Rylie Shaw, who shared her experience of navigating the park without the Disability Access Service (DAS). Rylie, who has narcolepsy, documented her journey on TikTok, revealing the stark differences she faced now that she no longer qualifies for the DAS pass.
Narcolepsy, a chronic sleep disorder characterized by overwhelming daytime drowsiness, made Rylie’s usual park experience vastly different. Previously, with the support of the DAS pass, Rylie could rest on benches and take necessary naps between rides. However, without the DAS, she found herself waiting in line for extended periods without a place to sit or lean, which proved to be physically draining. At one point, she had to rely on her companions to stay upright in the queues and eventually had to take a nap at the park’s first aid station, cutting significantly into her park time.
Despite managing to enjoy some attractions, Rylie felt that the overall experience was diminished and left early, citing the exhaustion and difficulty of maneuvering the park without the assistance she previously received. In a touching moment, she shared footage of herself in tears at home, expressing her disappointment and stating she would likely not return to Disneyland anytime soon.
This change comes as Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort recently updated their Disability Access Service requirements. The new policy now limits the service to guests with “developmental disabilities like autism or a similar disorder.” This change has drawn significant criticism from disabled guests and their supporters, with groups like DAS Defenders actively campaigning against the new regulations. They have launched petitions, organized events, and even deployed a mobile billboard to the D23 Expo to voice their concerns.
The move has sparked widespread conversation among the Disney community, highlighting the struggles faced by those who previously benefited from DAS. Disabled guests have reported various challenges, including unkind interactions with Cast Members and being instructed to “practice waiting in line” despite their disabilities.
What are your thoughts on the recent changes to the DAS pass at Disneyland? Have you experienced similar challenges or have stories to share? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to share this story with your friends and family to raise awareness about this crucial issue.
Source: WDW News Today
