TikTok Video Of Diababled Guest Denied DAS And Asking For A Paid Alternative Goes Viral

The changes in the Disability Access Pass (DAS) have been the center of debate on Disney parks forums and in the media. Recently, Disney changed its guidelines to allegedly stop abuse of the service. However, many argue that their new guidelines exclude those needing assistance.

Disney says they offer alternative measures, usually involving “substitution” and “return to line” access.  This means that the party of the person with disabilities stands in line, and the disabled guest rejoins the group later on. While some have said this works for them, many have had issues with this new system.

Recently, Charisma Mangahas, who has Guillain-Barre syndrome and goes by @asymptomatic on TikTok, put up a video discussing her challenges with the new system.

Mangahas can not visit the parks alone as she has a wheelchair and needs a ventilator to breathe. She needs assistance to visit the parks. She was denied DAS but still wants to visit the parks.

Here is her video

@asymptomatic_ I was sad snd disappointed but i got mcdonalds to feel better lol I have to made do with what was given but most likely i cant be separated from my caregiver so i wont go on the rides that have longer wait times. I have a Ted Talk that explains my disability but ill make another video soon😭🫶🏽 #disney #daspass #accessibility #fyp ♬ original sound – choo choo

Her main issue is the cost of Lighting Lane (which was Genie+.) While she does have an annual Magic Key pass, her party would need to use Lighting Lane (Genie+) to help keep wait times down. This would require her to purchase Lighting Lane (Genie+) for every person in her party each week she visits the park. She estimates that it would cost her about $400 a month to use their “accommodations.”

She is asking Disney to initiate a program allowing guests, like her to buy an annual Lighting Lane (Genie+), pass for her party. Then, guests with disabilities who have annual passes and visit often could have a more affordable way to utilize the Lightning Lane (Genie+) program.

Many have complained about this new program, arguing that Disney is forcing guests to pay more by selling Lighting Lane (Genie +) access at an upcharge as accommodation. This solution would help those who visit often but still require an upcharge to utilize accommodations.

She isn’t even asking not to pay. She wants to be given a more cost-effective option. I think she’s very courteous and understanding of the situation.

However, the DAS situation raises questions about Disney pushing the requirements to far. While many, usually non-disabled, individuals are cheering for the changes and questioning why people need accommodations, others point out that this is going too far.

This individual on X has explained it far better than I could.

For people like her and for others with serious neuromuscular diseases, etc. the issue is about extreme fatigue in heat or needing to very frequently access bathroom facilities, frequently take rests in quiet/calm and air conditioned spaces, medicate away from others, be able to…

— Queenofthedreamers87 (@QueenDreamers87) June 30, 2024

She has been EXTREMELY transparent about her diagnoses and needs.

A person with Guillain-Barré syndrome using a power wheelchair and breathing tube experiences severe muscle weakness, respiratory issues, pain, and autonomic dysfunction, requiring a highly accessible home…

— Queenofthedreamers87 (@QueenDreamers87) June 30, 2024

I feel Disney needs to reassess its accommodations and consider more cost-effective options for those who have been displaced. While abuse needs to stop, many people need assistance, and one size does not fit all. The fewer guests with DAS pass access, the more money Disney makes on Lighting Lane upcharges.

What do you think? Comment and let us know!

Hat tip to WDWNT