One of the things that I love about this blog and my journey is the friends I am making! People I never would have met any other way. Take Angela for example. I was able to meet her in person at Disney California Adventure and it was so lovely to meet her. She is incredibly sweet and such a compassionate person! So let's meet Angela...
1. If you are comfortable with this please describe your disability and what accommodations you need.
I was born with a rare form of Muscular Dystrophy called Congenital Fiber Type Disproportion. I've always been much weaker than the average person due to my muscle disease, but it has progressively worsened as I get older. I became wheelchair dependent about 2-3 years ago when I broke my leg and had a lengthy recovery process for which my muscles could not keep up. I require the use of a breathing machine and oxygen at night, have severe osteoporosis and arthritis, scoliosis of the spine, and have suffered Melanoma skin cancer just to name a few. I am able to briefly use a walker around the house for very short distances. I lost the ability to use the toilet by myself so I found and purchased a battery operated toilet lifter online which gives me my independence back at home.
2. What are your favorite attractions?
I absolutely love the Little Mermaid ride. I can ride that over and over again. I also enjoy Monsters Inc, Soaring Over the World, and seeing the views from Pixar Pal Around.
3. What is the process like for you in Queue lines?
I am always in my wheelchair when waiting in line so I'm quite comfortable. My family and I always use the MAXPASS so we rarely have to wait in long lines. Sometimes though I enjoy waiting in line and people watching or taking in all the sounds, smells, and atmosphere.
4. What is your favorite Park?
No doubt, my favorite park is Disneyland. From the moment I stroll in through the gates, I can feel the tranquility and charm of the park as if Walt Disney himself was standing there with me. I love the history and magical feel of Disneyland. There's no other place like it. I also love all the classic characters of the park.
5. Have you been to any other Disney properties i.e. DCL, Aulani, other Disney Parks? If yes how did you find the accessibility?
I've never been to any other park.
6. Do you go to non-Disney theme parks? If yes...which ones and how are they on accessibility?
I have been to Knott's Berry Farm and Six Flags before, but it was years ago when I didn't really have accessibility requirements.
7. How does it make you feel to be able to go to places like Disney Parks?
Being able to go to Disneyland makes me feel free. Every time I step foot into the parks, I'm transported to a world where my problems don't exist and I can be anything I want to be. Having my accessibility needs met by having accessible bathrooms, wheelchair access, specialty foods, etc. means I can leave my worries at home and not isolate myself in fear of not being able to travel because of my disability.
8. Is there anything else people should know about you, Disney Parks or accessibility?
Despite the controversy, Disney truly does strive to make the parks as accessible as possible. And I am doing my best to bring awareness of this truth through my new website.
You can find Angela at her website Accessible Disneyland Dreams , Facebook,Instagram and Pinterest.
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