Thanking CMs

[reendan]

Hello everyone, I have been a member here since March but have only lurked until now.

I have a genetic brittle bone disease that makes my bones like glass so I require special assistance in order to stay fracture free while at WDW. I travel in a wheelchair or ECV because all of the walking guarantees I come out fractured and I know it takes extra time to load me on busses etc, and I really appreciate the cheerful help I always receive. I always make up little CM appreciation cards (little business card sized things with a character on them and a thank you message and my name) to say thanks to CMs who go the extra mile to help me stay safe, but I was wondering if there is something else I can do as well.

One particular CM stands out for me from my last trip back in Feb '07. His name was Eduardo and he was at Soarin' loading us into the rows. He was so wonderful that I gave him a card and he was tickled pink about it. Well a few days later we were at Soarin' again and we saw Eduardo, he was thrilled to see us and asked how our trip was going. I told him that this was our last ride before heading to the airport to go home. He began telling all of the other CMs how we were the most awesome guests ever and he pulled out his wallet and there was the CM card I had given him. He said oh I always carry it with me now. He then said well how would you like first row center? We said that would be wonderful if it isn't too much trouble. He has us pull off to the side and wait for the next ride cycle. I'd love to do something else for him if he is still there. I am headed back to WDW Dec 5th.

So I guess my questions are is there a way to find out if he is still there and also what else could I do to show appreciation for such a wonderful attitude?

I also really hope to wind up on a bus with Cranbiz or Big Wallaby this time out!

[ktulu]

Hi reendan, welcome to SGT! The official furry welcoming team will be by later to (carefully) give you the official SGT greeting.

I think the best way to thank CM's is to do what you are doing, but also drop by guest relations and let them know, or even better, write a letter to Disney (you can get the address from GR). It will get to their manager and back to them! Email is okay, but I think a real letter means more. Just my nickels worth of advice!

[BRWombat]

Hi, reendan! Thanks for coming out of the shadows. I've used cards like that myself. It's a sad fact that CM's have to deal with lots more negativity than positive feedback, but because of that just about any kind gesture is usually wildly appreciated. Good for you for being so thoughtful!

(Gentle) and to from :wallaby: and !!!!

[reendan]

Ktulu: thanks for the warm welcome! I will get that mailing address and write a letter as well. Thanks for the suggestion, I really appreciate it.

BRWombat: Thanks for the welcome from the marsupials :) I know what you mean about CMs usually hearing the negative...I am a teacher so I can relate big time..only hear the complaints and when things are going well you hear nothing. Human nature I guess. I always want to make sure the CMs know that I really appreciate all of the extras that they do to help me be safe. I could never go to WDW without the type of assistance that they offer me. Heck, this past summer I went to historic sites and battlefields and came out with a torn achilles tendon that required surgery 3 weeks ago. So I'll be on my ECV and toting crutches a week from now while at WDW....will really be needing that extra help this time out!

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

making the card is a great idea!! What sort of information do you put on it? And can the CM give it to a manager, or should a letter be sent? I like the idea of a letter, as that way it will come down "from the top" rather than something the CM handes in!

[reendan]

Grumpy Pirate: well I guess they could hand it in, but they usually tell me it is going in their scrap book or something like that. Eduardo carried his in his wallet :) I will be following up with a letter in the future, just to make sure credit goes to where it will get noticed by higher ups as well :D:

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

That is a grea idea! I make up business cards for DW so that is not a biggie. DO you give out a E-mail address? and what does, or how do you word it?

"GOOD SHOW"?

I gotta think up something profound..like "Thank you"

Hmmmmm.

[reendan]

What I say depends on the graphic I use, but I always put my name and hometown/state. Never thought of an email address. Examples:

On a card with Mike and Sully: You've made us monstrously happy, thank you!

On a card with Tink: thanks for sprinkling pixie dust on our day!

On a card will Belle and Beast: We put your service to the test and determined you're the best! Thank you!

Stuff like that. Even basic things like thanks for making our trip more magical etc.

[krissy2803]

I too have made cards for our upcoming(TOMORROW!!) trip. I think that these along with a heartfelt thank you will help make someones day. Of course if it warrants it we will surely be going by guest relations to commend a CM.
I manage a fast food place and I know how few and far between the compliments come. They sure do mean a lot.
Krissy

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

This is such a good idea! I am even going to put my E-mail on it) (I have one that is a "giveaway" to the public!!)