Hi Mark,
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, and thank you for your question. I stayed at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge for the first time a few months ago, and I absolutely loved it! My favorite part was sitting on our balcony each morning with a cup of coffee, enjoying the peace and beauty of the Savanna.
I had foot surgery earlier this year, and I’ve visited Walt Disney World three times since, so I totally understand your concern about accessing an ice pack. A Disney vacation includes a lot of walking, and I know I really needed to ice my foot both mid-day and at the end of each of my theme park days.
I have a couple of suggestions for you, Mark. If you’ll be staying in a 1, 2, or 3 bedroom Villa, you’ll have a refrigerator with a freezer in your kitchen. If not, my strategy has been to double up two gallon-sized resealable bags, fill them with ice from the ice machine, wrap in a towel, and elevate and ice. I found this to be the easiest and most convenient option. I also spoke to a Cast Member who suggested that Bell Services at your resort will store the ice pack in their freezer. Keep in mind that you’ll want to have a few dollars on hand to tip for their storage and retrieval of your ice pack, and this involves stopping at Bell Service, which is not always convenient depending on where your room is located. Don't forget to pack your meds and drink lots of water for the swelling.
Mark, pain and swelling is not magical, so remember you can ask for accommodations for your injury. There are plenty of
services for Guests with mobility disabilities, so be sure to stop at Guest Services or ask any Cast Member if you think you’ll need any assistance during your visit.
I’m wishing you an easy recovery, lots of frozen fractals for your knee, and an absolutely magical vacation,
Robyn