This happened to me recently and I would like to know if it has happened to someone else…and what did you do about it?
I went to Busch Gardens not long ago with my diabetes supplies in a small bag (meter, glucose gel, a glucagon kit, an extra pump infusion set). As I was getting in line for a roller coaster, the person at the entrance told me I could not take my bag in line. I told him that I was a diabetic and the bag contained everything I needed in case of an insulin reaction. I told him in no uncertain terms that the bag was going with me. I was not going to wait in line for an hour, in the extreme heat, with no supplies and no water bottle. I told him I would leave the bag on the loading dock and that I was responsible for it. After much hemming and hawing, he finally let me pass. This really upset me. I needed to have those supplies with me but he couldn’t have cared less.
Has this happened to anyone else?
EMT
Diabetes And Amusement Parks?
21
Nov
emt_me91
November 21, 2009 at 9:08 am
The reason for this is sheer ignorance. Most people have little to no clue about what it takes to manage Type 1 diabetes.
Most people seem to think that “diabetes” just means an easily manageable condition in which a person has to “avoid sugar”. Umm…I have yet to meet any Type 1 diabetic who finds it that easy. And I have met A LOT through volunteering.
The lay people don’t realize that Type 1 diabetes can be life-threatening, and supplies must be with the person at all times.
While I would love to educate the lay public (and I do volunteer), the reality is that most people don’t care, don’t have time to listen, or think they already know the facts.
That said, save yourself some time. Carry medical ID and a letter from your doctor clearly stating that you have diabetes, and need to have x items on you at all times. Flash that, and you should be good to go. It’s always good to call and find out company policy on situations like this, but you need something to show the actual ride operators. Probably the girl in front of you is arguing a case for keeping her lip gloss near her, so you need to show a clearly documented medical reason to get through to these guys.
Good luck!
reginach
November 21, 2009 at 9:30 am
I understand your feelings, but they are only doing this for safety reasons. I assume they dont want your bag flying around and hitting someone or strangling you. Unlikely to happen, true, but…
safety on amusement park rides is a very big deal now.
fnd40
November 21, 2009 at 9:51 am
I I am in total sympathy with you because i am a diabetic too.
why can’t they be understanding about this problem? Most children and adults with astma must carry certain supplies with them also and sometimes they won’t fit into a pocket either. Should be someone or something to do about this problem.
wildiris
November 21, 2009 at 10:02 am
I’d contact the manager and tell him what happened. I understand that they have a “no bags in line” policy, but exceptions must be made for necessary medical equipment.
If you don’t say something, this might happen to another, less persuasive diabetic.
Hope this helps
rita_ala
November 21, 2009 at 10:45 am
I don’t do pumps but I do the insulin, and I know how you are feeling. I know this sounds harsh, but we have to stand up for ourselves because nobody really understands just how dangerous diabetes can be. To them it is just a word and like a cold or something.. Good for you for going forward with your complaint. I am really proud for you.. cheers…
texas.ok
November 21, 2009 at 11:05 am
I have a large shoulder strap purse and carry my stuff in a center pocket. This would not work for a guy I’m afraid.
Life in the slow lane
November 21, 2009 at 11:20 am
a few years ago (i am also a type 1 and carry my supplies everywhere no exceptions) I had jury duty . The 2guards at the entrance of the court would not let me in with my supplies. They wanted me to leave it with them and be w/out them all day. NO WAY. I could not reason with these guards so I made them get someone else they didn’t like it but in the end I was allowed in. I could not belive they thought it would be okay. If I carried a supply like that it must be for a good reason well not to them And it was a pretty big city too, Toledo ohio. Not like they never get any diabetics for jury duty. It took me a few days to get over that.
BAR
November 21, 2009 at 11:33 am
Yes, next time I would ask to speak with the supervisor and the park security. After I was done with the ride, I would go to customer service and talk with them. This is absurd!
logansmo
November 21, 2009 at 12:28 pm
I always feel plagued by misunderstanding from type 2 diabetics. People don’t take it seriously cuz they think my fat grandma has that and she takes meds. If you take insulin and you are younger, then that means it’s your fault. Really, I think it’s just ignorance. I was glad lately that I didn’t get chewed out for taking my supplies on an airplane. But I think, what a great terrorist weapon. Truly someone else will see that someday and then I’ll never be able to fly again.
joezen77
November 21, 2009 at 1:06 pm
Unfortunately it seems that some people care less and less and/or they dont understand what some of these medical conditions are all about. Its sad for all concerned.
sheritol
November 21, 2009 at 2:03 pm
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