Memories Of A Cast Member With Fibro

Dear purple butterflies, 
 
Before I get into the meat of my blog this week, how many of you knew that November 18th marks Mickey and Minnie Mouse’s birthday? They’re both going to be 93 years old. To celebrate, I’ll share my experiences of both working and playing at Walt Disney World with Fibromyalgia for me. Back in 2003, I wasn’t aware that I had Fibro. The discomfort I felt in my legs wasn’t quite as bad as it is now. I worked in an area called Animation Courtyard, (at what is now), Disney’s Hollywood Studios. I was a tour guide for The Magic of Disney Animation and One Man’s Dream which meant I had to stand for most of my shift. Typically, this is a requirement for cast members working attractions. The nice thing about those attractions was you were able to sit down in the theatre. As a cast member, it was also my job to pick up trash and make sure everything was neat and tidy. If I worked open to close, I was lucky to be able to walk to my car. At night I would have awful back spasms. It felt like I was being electrocuted. Looking back, I should have quit sooner. Would it have stopped my Fibro from becoming worse? It’s hard to say. 
 
I could not get enough of the parks. No matter if I worked a shift, I would play in the park almost every day. Depending on your job, and how often you play, it’s an excellent way to lose weight. Long before I bought my own scooter, I would rent a wheelchair. A lot of the time I would go to the parks alone. It was a struggle wheeling myself around those parks. Believe it or not, some of the nicest people I have ever met were guests willing to help me out. This was true no matter if I was working or visiting a park. I loved coming to a job where you could be a big kid and spread happiness. I do miss being able to go the parks and play when I’m down. It was a great stress release. Through everything, I loved working for the company for seven years. The unique experiences of which I acquired will be with me forever. 
 
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Till next time!
Rachel 

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