Roller Coasters and Amusement Parks

[purpleicedragon]

Recently diagnosed with Crohn's Disease. In a bad flare right now. No D but constipation which I have never dealt with that before. I have to make a trip with Dollywood with the kids. It has been planned for months. I will put on a strong face and do all that is with in my power to make it a great day for the kids.

Any suggestions on dealing with the heat, fatigue and pain?

 

[theOcean]

I know my first thought would be to scout out where all the washrooms are! I always do that when I'm in a new place, just in case. Otherwise: bring a refillable water bottle, try to rest when you can, and if you need to and are able to: maybe spend a day at the hotel if you can.

 

[Cat-a-Tonic]

In addition to what Ocean said, I'd also suggest getting in touch with guest relations at the park. See if they'll allow you to bring in your own food, use a wheelchair, use a handicap bathroom, whatever accommodations you feel you'll need. I went to a renaissance fair once and they have a strict "no outside food" policy - but when I emailed their guest relations person and explained that due to health problems I have a lot of food restrictions, she was really kind and said no problem and that I can bring in my own food. I printed out her email saying that and I carried it in my purse just in case. That worked out really well and it took some stress out of the day.

I would also say, print out a map of the park beforehand and mark on there where all the bathrooms, rest areas, first aid area, etc are located. You can also probably look at the park's menus online so that you know what restaurants would be okay or which ones to avoid.

 

[purpleicedragon]

The park is a hour away. My son has asperger's syndrome so we get the handicap accessible pass. I am more worried about ruining their day than anything. I am afraid of hurting. I will be taking it easy but some rides I have to ride because my husband can't. We have refillable cups and I know where all the bathrooms are this is my first trip with an active flare.

 

[LindaS]

Along with what the others have said, don't stress too much about ruining your family's day. Having been on vacation with my family while flaring, I know you don't want to spoil the fun of others, but try to just "go with the flow". If you need to sit down and rest for a bit, have your husband do things he can do with the kids.

 

[purpleicedragon]

Thank you all. Since my pain level is still a 10 with pains from the ER plans had to be changed. We will move the trip 2 weeks out and try again. This time without telling the kids.