A Character with Character

I spend my days with a variety of cast members when I'm working. Some are photographers. Some are attendants. And some are performers. This group is such a mix of personalities and attitudes that it makes the days very interesting and pretty exciting at times. And when we work together it's definitely magic. Some of our performers go above and beyond and really have such a tender heart for our young Guests and that's who I want to talk about tonight. 

I was talking with one today and we were sharing stories of Guest encounters and I know his heart really goes out to the little ones that come to the Parks that have difficulties with life. One family we were talking about was a Grandma with her grandchildren and one of them was autistic. Now when we are told about this we work together to get the best possible photos without putting any stress on the child. We know they may not look at the camera and we know they may not stand still but may be agitated and very active. So knowing this helps so much. The character will work to keep the child facing out towards the camera, very gently. And will look at us as often as possible in case we manage to catch the child looking at us so that we can snap that perfect photo for the parents that they never think they'll get. Well, this Grandma comes in and is worried that the boy will take too much time because he wants to talk so much and he'll hold up the line or not cooperate. I could see we had things flowing well and he was enjoying himself so I took Grandma aside while the guys were visiting with the little boy and told her to relax and let him enjoy his visit and to enjoy her visit as well. The other Guests will be okay waiting. They will get their turn to take what time they want and she doesn't need that pressure. I told her to tell us whenever she got to a character location so that we knew the little boys needs. And then she would be able to enjoy her trip and relax as we helped take care of him. She started to cry because she was so relieved that we understood her situation and she could see he was enjoying himself. 

The story I was told was from our Monsters, Inc. location. Sulley had a father come up and tell him that the little girl was having a rough day today but wanted to come see him before she left. Sulley gave her extra hugs and then dad shared what had happened. Apparently the little girl had already had 3 seizures that day and she was really wearing down. Sulley was crying as he got down and held this little girl for quite some time just to give her some comfort for that day after having such a rough morning. 

Some days are so emotional and yet so rewarding. It's fun and exciting to visit with so many Guests. And then you get those special ones that just touch your heart, like grandma and her little boy or dad and his little girl. And the struggles you know they go through EVERY DAY. And if we can bring a smile to these families and even a little relief from some of this stress then it makes the day and the job even more incredible!

So thanks to all my special friends out there that make the children smile and give them those extra hugs and give me those moments I am blessed to capture and let the families share and memories to keep for years to come.