AmyBalenzano's Profile

After I survived a car crash and 3 spinal surgeries caused by a drunk driver- my mom figured my family needed a vacation. So once I was up and walking again she sent my family to Disneyland for my 34th birthday (Nov.2008). My husband and I kept it a secret from our 8 year old daughter. We only told her we were going to California to relax and celebrate Mommy walking again.
We flew into the San Diego airport to save on costs and drove up to Anaheim. Our daughter is happily in the back seat being her typical chatterbox. But then she started reading signs....
"Disneyland Boulevard? Are we at Disneyland?"; "Exit right for Disneyland parking? Yes we are too at Disneyland?"; "Wait a minute- is Disneyland in California?"
We answered with non chalant answers saying it must be in the area, etc. But we were going to viist relatives and didn't have time for theme parks.
We checked into an off-property hotel-- it was behind the park near Disney Toontown section, and she noticed that right away in the glass elevator to our room.
We couldn't deny it any longer- we gave her the news-- 4days at Disneyland and 2 more at Sea World San Diego was our itinerary; not visiting distant cousins and elderly aunts (which she was convinced was going to be utterly boring!!).
We could hardly sleep that night planning our route for the next day and happily arguing on which ride we'd go for first. I was like a kid again being so excited to be visiting what my family calls my "Happy Place".
It was a blast and I was very proud of myself for being able to walk with just a cane for the first 2 days. I'd worked hard to get out of the wheelchair and Disneyland was my reward. But by the 3rd day I had to be in a motorized scooter to enjoy my birthday. Yet Disney made that birthday the best with random acts of kindness from Cast Members and special surprises.
The next time we visit Disneyland- my family and I are going to work very hard to get me to be able to walk again normally- without my cane. It's a big hurdle- but my "happy place" is definitely worth it!!