I just Broke my Ankle… leave in 10 Days HELP

[zakattack99]

Title says it all. Broke my ankle, thankfully not too bad, still will most likely will be in a cast won’t know till I meet with Dr. in the morning, just got home from the ER. No trip insurance, so we have to go, the details are as followed: kids are 2 and 6. (Wife and I are in our early 30s) We will also be there with the grandparents so that helps (they are healthy and able to help with the kids). Flying from PHL via Southwest. Staying at OKW and one night at Sports.

So becides any restrictions the Dr. give me are their any rides that I’m now banned from? What’s the best way to get around? I was thinking one of those leg scooter things? Any helpful perks that we can now tap into due to the injury? This was no way on my radar so any advise with either the parks or flying or anything will be helpful!

 

[ajrwdwgirl]

Title says it all. Broke my ankle, thankfully not too bad, still will most likely will be in a cast won’t know till I meet with Dr. in the morning, just got home from the ER. No trip insurance, so we have to go, the details are as followed: kids are 2 and 6. (Wife and I are in our early 30s) We will also be there with the grandparents so that helps (they are healthy and able to help with the kids). Flying from PHL via Southwest. Staying at OKW and one night at Sports.

So becides any restrictions the Dr. give me are their any rides that I’m now banned from? What’s the best way to get around? I was thinking one of those leg scooter things? Any helpful perks that we can now tap into due to the injury? This was no way on my radar so any advise with either the parks or flying or anything will be helpful!

Sorry about your ankle, my husband broke his right one a couple years ago and luckily we didn't didn't have a trip planned until after he had healed. I would recommend renting yourself a scooter, I have never done so but I think scooter bug is a company people around here seem to like. I would say allow yourself some breaks or time to rest at your resort, not just for you but with two small kids and grandparents (even though you say they are healthy) with you not being able to help as much or help with strollers it might make it easier for everyone to take things slower. You also might want to contact your hotel and see what the situation is for tub/showers or get an accessible room.

As for attractions I think that Flights of Passage will be out for you because of the way one has to sit in the seat and have the leg harness on. Otherwise I can't think of any other attractions that would be out, you'll just have to make sure you talk to cast members about transferring from the scooter to the attraction vehicle. Hope some more people can add some advice for you and that your ankle heals up without any problems.

 

[Disstevefan1]

I think a broken ankle may qualify for DAS?
I think currently you go online from home now a get it set up ahead of time.

 

[SteveAZee]

Update your OKW preferences for either ground floor or to be in one of the few buildings with elevators.

 

[zakattack99]

Thanks everyone for the ideas. I am starting lean more towards a scooter instead of the knee cart. From what I can tell I don’t know if DAS would apply for me as I am able to wait in the lines, I just might need to wait in an alternate line or board via a different entrance. But I will do more research on that.

We had planned on bringing our double stroller but if I am in a scooter maybe we only need the single as one of the kids could sit with me for a few minutes. If they get tired. Has anyone had a scooter and needed to use child swap does it work the same?

Doctor was not very helpful in terms of ideas on how to handle the parks, her advice was it’s going to be hot, your going to be sore, and the plane rides are going to be awful the airplane pressure change is going to hurt like hell… I mean, thanks? lol The good news is that the break is not very bad but they are worried I may have torn my ligaments but won’t know till I have an MRI. Hopefully that comes back clear and they can keep me in the boot they put me in today. If anyone has any additional tips I would greatly appreciate it!

 

[Simba's Mom]

The knee carts seem like a lot of work by the end of the day, considering how big WDW is and how hot it is. I tore ligaments in my ankle while I was at WDW, and luckily I had a scooter. It really helped. Good luck with your request for first floor at WDW. Although I had a little discussion with a CM, who insisted that first floor was a request, not a guarantee, regardless of medical condition, I've always gotten my request for first floor at OKW.

 

[ajrwdwgirl]

When my husband broke his ankle he used a knee cart for work and for short trips in public. He found even going around Walmart to be a little tiresome and then we did a day trip to the Mall of America and stayed for about 3 hours and he was tired. He said even just the small incline at the Mall got tiresome. Maybe take the knee cart with for at the airport and short distances and then use the scooter for longer time periods.

 

[yensid1967]

I have a suggestion:
1. CANCEL YOUR FLIGHT(free Cancel?)-Look into Amtrak. I think you would be more comfortable...no cabin pressure changes=no pain!
You will go from PHL>WAS, transfer to ORL. You MAY opt to get a family room that could accommodate your party! Coach seats are
fine as well with a TON of leg room, very comfy! 2 outlets at each seat. Look it up, you might be surprised!
2. CHANGE TO AN HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE ROOM Call and change your rooms to first floor accessible rooms for you party!
3. RENT AN ECV AT THE PARKS You can rent Electric Wheelchairs at the front of each park. They are a little pricey, so maybe renting one
from an outside company might be a better option for savings!
4.YOU ARE GOING FOR THE KIDS Just remember that you are there for the kids. While you may be limited on a few things to ride, just
seeing your kids' faces will be enough of enjoyment for you. But please take your time and rest when you need to. You may tell your
party to go one ahead and play while you rest for a while inside. Don't be stubborn like most men and push yourself!

I think that is all I wanted to share. Definitely check or call Amtrak (1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245) and find out about wheelchair accommodations. You kids will love the train ride and get to see parts of the country they won't get to see in a plane! You will have to adjust your travel days...2 days each way. The train leaves from DC at 3:05pm and arrives in Orlando at 1030am the next morning!

Please keep us informed of what's going on with your details!

 

[zakattack99]

The knee carts seem like a lot of work by the end of the day, considering how big WDW is and how hot it is. I tore ligaments in my ankle while I was at WDW, and luckily I had a scooter. It really helped. Good luck with your request for first floor at WDW. Although I had a little discussion with a CM, who insisted that first floor was a request, not a guarantee, regardless of medical condition, I've always gotten my request for first floor at OKW.

When my husband broke his ankle he used a knee cart for work and for short trips in public. He found even going around Walmart to be a little tiresome and then we did a day trip to the Mall of America and stayed for about 3 hours and he was tired. He said even just the small incline at the Mall got tiresome. Maybe take the knee cart with for at the airport and short distances and then use the scooter for longer time periods.

Thanks that seems to be the consensus around the interwebs. Looking into EVCs for the trip. Probably going to get a knee cart for the house and airport. But I agree the parks are just too much for the little cart.

I have a suggestion:
1. CANCEL YOUR FLIGHT(free Cancel?)-Look into Amtrak. I think you would be more comfortable...no cabin pressure changes=no pain!
You will go from PHL>WAS, transfer to ORL. You MAY opt to get a family room that could accommodate your party! Coach seats are
fine as well with a TON of leg room, very comfy! 2 outlets at each seat. Look it up, you might be surprised!
2. CHANGE TO AN HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE ROOM Call and change your rooms to first floor accessible rooms for you party!
3. RENT AN ECV AT THE PARKS You can rent Electric Wheelchairs at the front of each park. They are a little pricey, so maybe renting one
from an outside company might be a better option for savings!
4.YOU ARE GOING FOR THE KIDS Just remember that you are there for the kids. While you may be limited on a few things to ride, just
seeing your kids' faces will be enough of enjoyment for you. But please take your time and rest when you need to. You may tell your
party to go one ahead and play while you rest for a while inside. Don't be stubborn like most men and push yourself!

I think that is all I wanted to share. Definitely check or call Amtrak (1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245) and find out about wheelchair accommodations. You kids will love the train ride and get to see parts of the country they won't get to see in a plane! You will have to adjust your travel days...2 days each way. The train leaves from DC at 3:05pm and arrives in Orlando at 1030am the next morning!

Please keep us informed of what's going on with your details!

Thanks for the advice. I will see what I can do at Sports about moving the room, my FIL will have to talk to OKW as it’s his reservations on points, good news is we reserved near hospitality house so I think some of those rooms have the elevators so that may help as well.

Unfortunately as much as I would love to do the rail my wife suffers from very mad motion sickness. 2 hrs on a plane is tolerable 2 days on a train each way… I might have a broken ankle and divorce by the end of the trip lol

 

[yensid67]

Thanks that seems to be the consensus around the interwebs. Looking into EVCs for the trip. Probably going to get a knee cart for the house and airport. But I agree the parks are just too much for the little cart.


Thanks for the advice. I will see what I can do at Sports about moving the room, my FIL will have to talk to OKW as it’s his reservations on points, good news is we reserved near hospitality house so I think some of those rooms have the elevators so that may help as well.

Unfortunately as much as I would love to do the rail my wife suffers from very mad motion sickness. 2 hrs on a plane is tolerable 2 days on a train each way… I might have a broken ankle and divorce by the end of the trip lol

the train does not sway as much as people think the lower to the ground the more you hear the clickety clack of the rails not much of a sway

 

[Hakunamatata]

Do not rely on the parks to have an ECV available to tent. Quite often they run out and then you are stuck with a standard wheel chair. I really recommend you have one rented off site.

 

[Smiley/OCD]

Ok, here’s what you’re gonna do…make a reservation thru Scooterbug rentals…they’re the only company authorized to drop off at the resorts WITHOUT the guests being present.
You will now have the scooter at your resort and will be able to take it on the buses. The travel from the bus stop to the gate is long…you will appreciate the scooter!! The ones you rent in the park are too big and “clunky”… and they’re first come, first served and like I said, you won’t have it for the trip to/from your resort.
Take the plane, you’ll be fine!
You won’t qualify for DAS because you have a “temporary” disability and you can move in a line.
Please rent one…you AND the family will thank me when you return!

 

[zakattack99]

Do not rely on the parks to have an ECV available to tent. Quite often they run out and then you are stuck with a standard wheel chair. I really recommend you have one rented off site.

Ok, here’s what you’re gonna do…make a reservation thru Scooterbug rentals…they’re the only company authorized to drop off at the resorts WITHOUT the guests being present.
You will now have the scooter at your resort and will be able to take it on the buses. The travel from the bus stop to the gate is long…you will appreciate the scooter!! The ones you rent in the park are too big and “clunky”… and they’re first come, first served and like I said, you won’t have it for the trip to/from your resort.
Take the plane, you’ll be fine!
You won’t qualify for DAS because you have a “temporary” disability and you can move in a line.
Please rent one…you AND the family will thank me when you return!

Thanks I agree off site rental is the way to go. I will be calling Scotterbug today. I have two questions however, first do you have any recommendations on the kind of scooter, I am trying to decide between the Resort Lite (most expensive), Resort (least) Resort Plus (in between) the "Resort Plus" seems to be the sweet spot but if it is no better than the regular "Resort" model then I can save a few bucks. Also do you know if Scooterbug will allow me to pick up at All Star Sports and Return it at OKW?

I think the plan as of now is to call the airline and see if I can get assistance threw the terminals in Philly and Orlando, so that I can bring my crutches instead of dragging along a knee cart. Then have the EVC waiting for me at All Star for the trip. That way if I need to get out and do small distances (such as around the room) I will be able to have the crutches and wont have to rely on my family for help.

Appreciate all of the help and suggestions. Looking forward to reporting back on how it goes.

 

[Smiley/OCD]

Thanks I agree off site rental is the way to go. I will be calling Scotterbug today. I have two questions however, first do you have any recommendations on the kind of scooter, I am trying to decide between the Resort Lite (most expensive), Resort (least) Resort Plus (in between) the "Resort Plus" seems to be the sweet spot but if it is no better than the regular "Resort" model then I can save a few bucks. Also do you know if Scooterbug will allow me to pick up at All Star Sports and Return it at OKW?

I think the plan as of now is to call the airline and see if I can get assistance threw the terminals in Philly and Orlando, so that I can bring my crutches instead of dragging along a knee cart. Then have the EVC waiting for me at All Star for the trip. That way if I need to get out and do small distances (such as around the room) I will be able to have the crutches and wont have to rely on my family for help.

Appreciate all of the help and suggestions. Looking forward to reporting back on how it goes.

As far as the drop off/pick up at 2 different resorts, I don’t think it would be a problem as long as everyone is on the same page.
As far as the scooters go, I would request a 3 wheeler rather than a 4…it’s MUCH easier maneuvering in tight spaces (like a bus)…the model I would go for mileage between charges…the longer the better.
A couple pieces of advice I give to EVERYONE using one for the first time…when it arrives, take 15-20 minutes BEFORE you head out to the parks and take it for a ride…learn how it starts, stops, steers, etc. TRUST ME, you’ll thank me afterwards!!
Secondly, CHARGE EVERY NIGHT!!! Bring the cord with you during the day and if you’re stopping to eat or shopping, if you used a lot of juice, ask if you can plug in…most restaurants and stores are accommodating if you ask nicely. Lastly, if you’re taking crutches with you, when you reserve it, ask them if they have crutch holders that you can use…it may cost a few bucks, but it’ll make life easier…
How do I know all this stuff? I have MS, and use one unfortunately ALL the time now…I own my own and the airlines fly it down for free…
I’m kinda an expert in ECV’s (even though I DON’T wanna be)…
If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask!!
Follow my advice, and you and your family WILL have a great time!!!
Let me know how you make out! You can IM me if you want!

 

[zakattack99]

As far as the drop off/pick up at 2 different resorts, I don’t think it would be a problem as long as everyone is on the same page.
As far as the scooters go, I would request a 3 wheeler rather than a 4…it’s MUCH easier maneuvering in tight spaces (like a bus)…the model I would go for mileage between charges…the longer the better.
A couple pieces of advice I give to EVERYONE using one for the first time…when it arrives, take 15-20 minutes BEFORE you head out to the parks and take it for a ride…learn how it starts, stops, steers, etc. TRUST ME, you’ll thank me afterwards!!
Secondly, CHARGE EVERY NIGHT!!! Bring the cord with you during the day and if you’re stopping to eat or shopping, if you used a lot of juice, ask if you can plug in…most restaurants and stores are accommodating if you ask nicely. Lastly, if you’re taking crutches with you, when you reserve it, ask them if they have crutch holders that you can use…it may cost a few bucks, but it’ll make life easier…
How do I know all this stuff? I have MS, and use one unfortunately ALL the time now…I own my own and the airlines fly it down for free…
I’m kinda an expert in ECV’s (even though I DON’T wanna be)…
If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask!!
Follow my advice, and you and your family WILL have a great time!!!
Let me know how you make out! You can IM me if you want!

Thank you so much this has been a big help! I will reserve a three wheel version! Thanks for the advise on taking time to learn it, our plan is to spend our first afternoon at the resort/pool, so I will have a whole afternoon to practice with it before we head to a park.

Thank you so much for your advise and help, I will definitely send you a message if I have any questions. Sorry to hear that these are now part of your daily life. I have only been dealing with this for a few days now, but it has already been eye opening as to how hard being mobile impaired has to be for people that do it every day really gives you an appreciation for a lot of different things that where just so normal before.

 

[Ayn]

I ruptured my medial meniscus the first day of our last trip. December 1, 2022 will be in my memory FOREVER.
All the above suggestions sound great and I would add:

-At the airports ask for transfer assistance. just do, don't be shy. One of our flights was changed 3 times, in Denver. This meant concourse long walks to shuttle trains and another concourse long walk x2. Nearly did me in.
-Use handicapped parking every day and everywhere-the parking attendants will wave you ahead no problem. Get a DMV pass if you have time.
-You won't qualify for DAS but do ask for the handicapped entrance and you will get on several rides faster! With the scooter I was not allowed to ride some rides and so used crutches in lines often. When doing so no one offered the handicapped entrance to me so you will have to ask.
-Take your crutches with you, some places the scooters are just a pain and you can maneuver tight spaces like restaurants and stores with crutches. Plus it feels good to get up and move sometimes. We bought a bungie cord to strap them onto the back of the scooter.
-Danger, danger.....do not use the "knee scooter" option in the parks-too unstable and they tip easily plus unless you are in top form you will be exhausted.
-Take ziplock bags to get ice so that you can ice your injury through the day and elevate often. Feels so good in the heat.
-Take a book and enjoy a quiet moment with your leg up and on ice while you family rides without you. Lots of beautiful places to sit and people watch too. I was a bit short tempered with disappointment so this extra time alone with a life saver for me and my family.

It's all about attitude and you will have a fantastic, memorable trip!

 

[MissViv]

I broke my ankle the week before my Disney trip this last Mother's Day but I had a walking boot (no cast). Dr. said I could go but had to wear the boot and rent a scooter. I used Scooter Bug and it was at the resort when we arrived. Everything worked out great with buses and monorails. My daughter loved the Scooter because it had a big basket and could carry all her "stuff".

We didn't really have any problems and I was able to ride everything, even flight of passage. Some rides you can even take the scooter thru the lines and others you have to park at the entrance.

Hope you have a great trip!

 

[JIMINYCR]

When you are leaving the scooter behind to go through lines or transitioning to a table to dine, or any time youre in a standing or walking position, its good to have your family members positioned on the injured side giving you protection from other guests. You have the boot which for most people shows them you have an injury, but others will be oblivious to the boot and either rush past you, bump you, jostle you, because they are in such a rush and arent paying attention.
My DW is in a w/c and has a service dog. I always position myself between the dog and the passers by when we are walking to keep him from being stepped on or bumped into.
You certainly dont want to have more injury done to the foot.
Also on some rides, the ride vehicles transition quickly as guests load on or off. Some ride cars are tight and require some mobility to enter and sit. Dont be afraid to notify the CM's working the ride that you may need time to load and unload. Space mtn, 7dmt, TT are just a few that can be tricky to get on even without a boot. Think ahead of time which rides you may have to be more careful when using the ride cars and also which attractions may be rougher, jostle you around more on the turns so you can be proactive to protect your foot.

 

[zakattack99]

I ruptured my medial meniscus the first day of our last trip. December 1, 2022 will be in my memory FOREVER.
All the above suggestions sound great and I would add:

-At the airports ask for transfer assistance. just do, don't be shy. One of our flights was changed 3 times, in Denver. This meant concourse long walks to shuttle trains and another concourse long walk x2. Nearly did me in.
-Use handicapped parking every day and everywhere-the parking attendants will wave you ahead no problem. Get a DMV pass if you have time.
-You won't qualify for DAS but do ask for the handicapped entrance and you will get on several rides faster! With the scooter I was not allowed to ride some rides and so used crutches in lines often. When doing so no one offered the handicapped entrance to me so you will have to ask.
-Take your crutches with you, some places the scooters are just a pain and you can maneuver tight spaces like restaurants and stores with crutches. Plus it feels good to get up and move sometimes. We bought a bungie cord to strap them onto the back of the scooter.
-Danger, danger.....do not use the "knee scooter" option in the parks-too unstable and they tip easily plus unless you are in top form you will be exhausted.
-Take ziplock bags to get ice so that you can ice your injury through the day and elevate often. Feels so good in the heat.
-Take a book and enjoy a quiet moment with your leg up and on ice while you family rides without you. Lots of beautiful places to sit and people watch too. I was a bit short tempered with disappointment so this extra time alone with a life saver for me and my family.

It's all about attitude and you will have a fantastic, memorable trip!

Thanks! Yes the knee scooter sounded like a good thing at the start but after about an hour of research and the comments here the knee scooter WILL NOT be joining us! I already have set up a reservation with Scooterbug for a EVC and I asked them to include the crutch holder so I can bring them with me. My plan is basically what you suggested use the scooter as much as I can at the parks, but have the crutches for when I need to get up and and move as well as in tight areas, or when I need to board rides and so forth. I will be sure to ask the cast member if the attraction has a handicap entrance! We will be using Disney transport so no need to worry about parking.

I also called the airline and let them know that I will need assistance getting around the terminal, they notated it on our reservation, however the guy on the phone said that the best way to get help is to flag down the first employee I see and ask... so we will see how that goes lol.

My biggest concern is with our luggage, since we will only be doing one night at Sports before transferring to OKW, my plan is to pack everything my family needs in one bag for the first night. Then see if we can either just transfer our luggage right away when we get to Sports or ask them to hold it over night. So that the next morning we can just bring the one bag back and have them send the whole lot of it over to OKW first thing Sunday morning. I just want to make it as easy as possible on my wife.

I 100% agree attitude is going to be the defining factor! I have ha a few family members tell me to cancel because "your just going to be miserable the whole time and not be able to do anything" however as everyone here has said while there may be a few things along the way that I may either elect not to participate in, almost all of it is accommodating. Also I am excited to be going, yes it will be different than past trips but the kids are bigger and super excited so how could I not be as well! I will be sure to let everyone know how it goes.

 

[zakattack99]

When you are leaving the scooter behind to go through lines or transitioning to a table to dine, or any time youre in a standing or walking position, its good to have your family members positioned on the injured side giving you protection from other guests. You have the boot which for most people shows them you have an injury, but others will be oblivious to the boot and either rush past you, bump you, jostle you, because they are in such a rush and arent paying attention.
My DW is in a w/c and has a service dog. I always position myself between the dog and the passers by when we are walking to keep him from being stepped on or bumped into.
You certainly dont want to have more injury done to the foot.
Also on some rides, the ride vehicles transition quickly as guests load on or off. Some ride cars are tight and require some mobility to enter and sit. Dont be afraid to notify the CM's working the ride that you may need time to load and unload. Space mtn, 7dmt, TT are just a few that can be tricky to get on even without a boot. Think ahead of time which rides you may have to be more careful when using the ride cars and also which attractions may be rougher, jostle you around more on the turns so you can be proactive to protect your foot.

Thanks, I would have never thought about protecting the leg from others when in those situations that's really helpful!