Jayden(22month old) and I had a flight for Oct 6th at 1:20am to Taiwan to visit my dad and also to celebrate my sister’s 40th birthday. It was going to be just the two of us on a 16+ hour flight. I thought I was very well prepared. I packed all his favorite fruits, new snacks, bread, buns, toy cars, new toys, and even bought an iPad for this flight in case of meltdowns/tantrums. Got to the airport at 11pm and the check-in/baggage line did not open up until 11:30pm. By then Jayden’s already overly tired and started screaming and throwing himself on the floor. I tried giving him everything I packed. Nothing worked. A kind lady tried giving him candy and he spazzed out over the candy. I gave it to him, he didn’t want it. I put it away and he started screaming and crying even harder. I was ready to give up and go home at that point, but gave it some more time thinking he’ll get calmer. My bags got checked and we went through security with smaller tantrums. I was able to handle with that. On our way to our gate, the tantrums just kept getting worst. He wanted to walk to the escalators and I didn’t let him so he threw himself on the floor again. Everytime I ignored him he’d get up and run away. When I caught up to him and grabbed him he’d throw a huge fit. I couldnt get him to sit in his stroller because he’s a strong 30lbs boy! Walking to the gate took at least 30 minutes and I was ready to tell the agents I want my checked bags back. I finally got to my gate, requested my bags and canceled my flight because I was about to break down crying. Jayden has sensory issues and the whole experience was too overwhelming for him unfortunately. It was such a tough decision but I know he wouldn’t have made it through the long flight and if he couldn’t make it, then I definitely couldn’t make it. I cancelled our flights and hotels and took a very big loss of $3,000. I was able to get $300 back but after no show fees and cancellation fees from third party, I’m still at a loss of $3,000. I want to be there for my sister’s 40th so rebooked my flight, but having my mom stay home with Jayden. I would really appreciate any of the help just to cover my losses.
Organizer
Wenny Chang
Organizer
New York, NY