Good morning, Mickey News readers! We have an important update from the House of Mouse that has many Disney fans feeling a sprinkle of disappointment regarding the recent changes to Disney’s Disability Access Service (DAS).
Rosie Keiser, a devoted Disney fan from Northridge, recently shared her emotional experience with Disneyland’s DAS. Suffering from multiple sclerosis, Rosie was able to get the pass, but not without having to answer deeply personal questions. Fellow fan Farrah Evagues, battling Stage IV small bowel adenocarcinoma, was denied her request after enduring lengthy interviews, prompting concerns over the updated policies.
The DAS pass, established in 2013, originally helped guests with disabilities bypass long standby lines by providing return times for rides. However, due to overuse and a tripling of pass holders since 2019, Disney introduced stricter eligibility guidelines in May and June of this year. The pass is now limited primarily to those with developmental disabilities that prevent them from waiting in conventional queues, leaving others feeling excluded.
In response, some Disney enthusiasts have voiced their frustration, even creating a petition called DAS defenders, which has garnered 31,000 signatures. These changes have prompted fans like Debbie Perez, who suffers from sideroblastic anemia, to reconsider their loyalty to Disney parks, fearing for their health without the pass.
While Disney has reiterated the availability of other accommodations, such as sensory experience guides and wheelchair rentals, the disappointment remains palpable among those who relied on the DAS pass for an inclusive magical experience.
As we reflect on these changes, we encourage our readers to share their thoughts and stories in the comments below and to keep the conversation going. Let us know how these updates have affected your Disney trips and what you think could be done better!
Source: [Los Angeles Times](https://www.latimes.com/california/newsletter/2024-09-01/disney-no-longer-magical-to-guests-denied-disability-access-service-essential-california)
