I went through the drive-thru on March 3, 2026 at approximately 3:33pm and ordered two small drinks, two poutines, and two cookies.
When I pulled up to the second window, I was handed what appeared to be Happy Meal drinks. It caught me off guard, which is why I calmly asked, “Is that a small?” The employee, Preet, responded that I had ordered a Happy Meal or two Happy Meals. The tone and manner in which this was said felt dismissive. I said no, I did not order any Happy Meals, and began repeating my actual order to clarify. The window was then shut on me mid sentence while I was repeating what I ordered.
Every time I visit this McDonald’s location, staff normally re read my order to me. That practice helps me tremendously as someone who is hard of hearing because it allows me to confirm that my order was heard correctly. That did not happen during this visit.
I could see staff scrambling behind the window, which made me question whether there had been a mix up. I AM HARD OF HEARING and WEAR HEARING AIDS,, which means clear communication is essential for me. I was genuinely trying to determine whether I misheard them or they misheard me.
When the window reopened, instead of explaining what was happening, the debit machine was pushed toward me with the total. I responded that I understood I had to pay, but I wanted to know what I was paying for if I had just been handed the wrong drinks.
Another employee then explained that there had been a mobile order mix up. The shift manager, Ryan, eventually apologized and provided the order free of charge, which I acknowledge. However, free food does not address the underlying issue.
McDonald’s needs clearer training on how to provide service to individuals with disabilities, including invisible ones. Just because a disability is not visible does not mean it is not real. When I was advocating for myself and trying to clarify my order, I felt dismissed rather than supported.
Treating customers with patience, clear communication, and respect would prevent situations like this. I am sharing this not just for myself, but to advocate for others who live with hearing disabilities and rely on accessible communication every day.