Walt Disney World...

[TexasMommy]

My husband just told me that we are going to take a trip to Disney World in a couple of weeks for out annv. I am just a little worried about some things. Like the plane ride, what rides I should avoid... things like that.
My seizures look like I am sleeping and twitching a little, so on the plane it's not a big worry, but I am a little concern. Also, I go limp when they happen, should I rent a wheelchair so I don't fall and cause a scene or hurt myself? I know some rides I am not going on because strobe sets them off. Anyone gone to Disney with epilepsy and had any problems? I am excited and worried at the same time. Ideas, thoughts?

[valeriedl]

My neurologist told me to stay away from roller coasters, anything that goes really fast or has up and down flips in it. I don't think that Disney World has anythin like that. He has told me to stay away from strobe lights too as you said.

As for renting a wheel chair, that would be up to you. How often do you have your sez? How bad are they when you have them? I know that you would be doing alot of walking around there and if you normally have a sez when you get tired then I would say yes rent one because that would take some of the strain off of your body.

Hope you have fun!

[Endless]

Hi, TexasMommy,

Check this out at the epilepsy.com site: Tips for vacationing at amusement parks It's targeted for kids, but it applies to us, too.

Here's a link to the "all ears" tips for people with special needs. The epilepsy page is a bit generic, but still good common sense: All ears

Google Epilepsy Disney World. A bunch of stuff pops up.

Here's an article on flying that I thought was really good from the epilepsy foundation:
http://www.epilepsyfoundation.org/ep...usa/travel.cfm
AND
http://www.epilepsyfoundation.org/ab...urespecial.cfm

And another from epilepsy.com that is extremely practical in case you have a convulsive seizure:
http://www.epilepsy.com/articles/ar_1064878722


Gosh, have fun!!!!!!!

[Zoofemme]

I've taken 16+hr international flights with no problems, as long as I can go to sleep. I would worry more about the stress of the amusement park than the flight.

[Cint]

I used to be married to a pilot, so have traveled many times by air, across the U.S and internationally as well. With the safety and security measures at the airport being what they are now, they will probably ask you about meds, so please ask your dr. for a letter and take extras. I've never asked for a wheelchair. I am capable of walking. Make sure you take extra time for the needed rest.

Only one time during a layover at DFW did I have a complex partial seizure, so it wasn't that big of a deal. I recuperated quickly and was able to make the flight. I now have the VNS and have traveled internationally as well and haven't had any problems. I was at Disney World several years ago with my sister and didn't have any problems.

[TexasMommy]

Thanks for all the tips and Links! I feel less nervous. I am seeing my doctor before the trip and I am now really looking forward to it! Great web site "all ears"! that helped a lot and I found some extra information just with the general trip! Thanks!

[TeeTees]

Hey TM. I've been to Disney, and for the length of time that I'm there I just believe in living it up and enjoying the rides.

Personally, I'm no good with rollercoasters anyway, as I don't like heights. The only 'rides' that did concern my epilepsy was the 3D cinema things - they just kinda distort my vision too much.

Apart from that, just do what you feel comfortable doing, and like I said previously - enjoy it while you're there....it's all fuuuun

[matchu]

last time I flew I had my meds with me and not one word was said to me. I could have had anything in those medicine bottles! They stopped my boss and took his plumb bob that we needed to do the job that we were going out of town for. Of course my boss is middle eastern.

[Endless]

I have small empty pill bottles labeled by my pharmacy for when I travel. I put in just the number of pills I need, plus an extra couple of day's worth in case I'm delayed. Then I can leave my excess meds at home, in case I'm mugged or whatever. Since it's on a pharmacy lable, it's good for international travel (customs) as well as flying about in one's own country.

[dfwtexas]

I haven't flown on plane in over 4 years...haven't since my accident. I finally decided to take a plane trip to WA state this summer. I have some very dear friends from childhood that I have stayed in touch with. The last time I went to WA was 30 years ago. I am nervous about flying....first because of my arm
(long story, but have plate and rod in it, daily pain, etc) and then I am not sure about flying and effect on my E. I am glad to hear positive comments on board about flying. I am going to take one of my strong pain pills before flight, scared about the cabin pressure and possible pain. I am flying at night, so I will also take my nightly seizure meds before getting on plane.
My friends are so great, I had long conversations with them about my health problems. Explained about my E and my triggers. They are so great about it and
are planning vacation around letting me not get tired, keeping me away from light triggers, etc. I think going on this trip is helping me mentally too.
Have fun on your Fl trip!

[alivenwell]

I keep an extra backup supply of meds with me locked up in the hotel safety box and carry a one week supply all the time with me in the parks. Please make sure you keep enough electrolytes in your system from sports drinks.

I carry medications in an insulated camera pouch which has a strap that goes around my waist.