Internet Erupts Over Viral Photo of Mom Allegedly Stealing Wheelchair at Magic Kingdom
Disney theme parks have long been known for their accessibility, welcoming guests of all abilities and ensuring everyone has a chance to experience the magic. As part of that effort, all Disney theme parks offer wheelchairs and electric conveyance vehicles (ECVs) for rent to help guests get around the parks more comfortably.
These devices are essential for many visitors, especially those with limited mobility, and they are often the key to ensuring an enjoyable day at the parks.
Related: ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Host Left Wheelchair-Bound at Magic Kingdom After Incident
However, one shocking incident has recently raised eyebrows online, as a guest (a mother) visiting the Magic Kingdom was accused of taking a wheelchair that didn’t belong to her. What started as a seemingly innocent claim quickly turned into a viral discussion, with online users criticizing the woman’s actions and questioning her sense of entitlement.
Here’s how it all unfolded.
A Disastrous Discovery
Reddit user Such_Competition1503 shared a post on the platform detailing a shocking story involving a mother who, after seeing an abandoned wheelchair at the Magic Kingdom, decided to take it. She proudly posted about it online, even sharing a photo of herself using the wheelchair with her daughter.
PSA: if you see a wheelchair, don’t take it and use it as a photo op.
byu/Such_Competition1503 inDisneyWorld
Related: VIDEO: How One Guest’s ‘Drinking Around the World’ Adventure Left Them in a Wheelchair
The claim has sparked widespread criticism, with many questioning the ethics of taking something that doesn’t belong to you.
In her post, the woman explained that her daughter had walked approximately 15 miles during the day, and as they were heading out of the Magic Kingdom, they noticed an unused wheelchair. Instead of leaving it for the rightful owner or Disney staff to handle, the mother decided to take the chair, reasoning that her daughter needed it. In her mind, it seemed like a simple solution to a tired child’s problem.
However, what made matters worse was that she shared a photo of the event—a photo taken by a PhotoPass photographer.
The post quickly gained traction, with many users criticizing the woman for her actions, especially since wheelchairs and ECVs are rented through the park and meant for specific guests who truly need them.
The Online Outrage
The incident quickly went viral on Reddit and other platforms, sparking a conversation about entitlement and the proper use of accessible equipment. Commenters were not only disturbed by the mother’s actions but also horrified by her apparent lack of understanding regarding the significance of these wheelchairs for others in the park.
One user remarked:
“My son has a disease where he can walk fine for short distances but has to use a transport chair at Disney. Makes me wonder if this was parked near the restroom and was someone’s that might be in a similar situation. Wheelchair in a restroom is a nightmare.”
Others also noticed that the wheelchair in question didn’t look like one typically rented out by Disney. Several pointed out that the chair appeared to be a personal wheelchair, raising concerns that it had been stolen.
Another Redditor commented:
“This doesn’t even look like a Disney wheelchair. I’ve never seen a pink one. So it looks like they literally stole a wheelchair that someone owned. That is actually ridiculous.”
The plot thickened when a user, u/CartographerLong106, reported that someone had been posting in a Disney disability group about a missing chair. The chair in question matched the description of the one taken by the mother. According to u/CartographerLong106:
“The best (worst?!) part was when someone realized that it was actually a stolen wheelchair that someone in a Disney disability group had been about going missing, with pictures – the chairs matched. It was her personal chair. That person was given OP’s information 😅”
This revelation sent the internet into a frenzy. People were shocked that the mother had not only taken someone else’s personal wheelchair but had then gone on to share photos and post about it online, seemingly unaware of the potential consequences.
The Fallout
As the story gained momentum, more users chimed in with their personal experiences. One commenter confirmed the owner of the stolen wheelchair had indeed posted in a Disney Passholder group, trying to track down their missing chair.
According to this user, the person had to rent a wheelchair to continue enjoying the parks because of the theft.
“Yep! This is all over the Passholder pages, and all those Passholders didn’t disappoint in pointing out that the owner posted this chair on a disability page asking for its return. The owner had to rent a chair when theirs was stolen. The proud entitled mother posted her daughter in the stolen chair, and that post didn’t go the way she expected. 🤪”
Related: Little Girl Ends up in Wheelchair After Disney World Cast Members Step In
As the situation escalated, many Redditors expressed their hopes that Disney officials would take action and potentially ban the woman from the parks. There were discussions about her Annual Pass being revoked, with many believing that taking someone else’s wheelchair was a clear violation of the rules and ethical standards of Disney.
The Lesson to Be Learned
This incident highlights the importance of respecting other guests’ needs, especially when it comes to accessibility. Wheelchairs and ECVs are provided to help those with mobility challenges navigate the parks, and taking one that doesn’t belong to you can create unnecessary barriers for others.
For anyone visiting the parks, the message is clear: Do not take a wheelchair or ECV that doesn’t belong to you. If a wheelchair is left unattended, it’s likely either rented or owned by another guest. Instead of taking it, notify a Cast Member, who can ensure it gets back to its rightful owner.
If you or someone in your party requires a wheelchair or ECV, Disney offers these services at all its theme parks and water parks, as well as Disney Springs. Guests are encouraged to visit Guest Services for assistance.
Do you think Disney should permanently ban the woman who stole the wheelchair? Have you ever witnessed someone taking a wheelchair or ECV that wasn’t theirs? What are your thoughts on how Disney should handle incidents like this? Share your stories and opinions in the comments below—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
