In 2017, we celebrated Funmi’s cancer going into remission with a trip to Walt Disney World. We stayed at the luxurious Animal Kingdom Lodge which has an on-site savanna. Our flight was delayed so there was only enough time to drop our bags off before heading to the first park: Hollywood Studios.
Of course, Funmi’s first point of order was to attempt to get us thrown out of the park for sexual harassment after he started stroking the wookie (on the arm, of course). Chewbacca was a good sport and posed for another photo with my mom but I’m sure Funmi’s face is on a wall somewhere of problem guests.
Then, I had to bring them to my favorite ride of all time: The Tower of Terror. I knew that Funmi had only been on a few thrill rides in the past and nothing extreme so I expected him to escape with my terrified mom after we made it to the front of the queue. Funmi never turned down a chance to try something new, though, and would not be dissuaded!
Strapped in, we both enjoyed the dark ride sequence but in no time flat we were about to take our first plunge. Nothing could have prepared me for Funmi’s reaction. Apparently, thrill rides and roller coasters bring out the Flight Response in him as he tried to claw his way OUT OF HIS SEAT while we were falling!
I can never help but to scream on this ride, uncontrollably. But Funmi’s absurd reaction made me laugh hysterically as well. The result was utter bewilderment and confusion from not just me but the people surrounding us! Then there was the matter of his Magic Band. As he was wildly throwing his arm about, it was violently whacking against my arm. This led to even more hysterical laugh-screaming. And bruises.
When the ride was finally over, we disembarked and I immediately apologized to the other woman Funmi was accidentally hitting in his strange frenzy. Everyone was equally bemused, though. Who couldn’t fall in love with Funmi, even after an unprovoked physical assault while plummeting on a thrill ride? If we hadn’t parted ways then, I’m sure he would’ve made fast friends with them as he always does.
In case you were wondering, Funmi apparently had a great time and discovered his love of thrill rides. I found out that screaming and laughing at the top of your lungs can damage your vocal cords. I lost my voice for more than a week.
We were unstoppable. We conquered all the roller coasters of Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. He had the same reaction EVERY TIME. Wriggling and howling in terror when the ride started but wanting back on after it stopped.
His only regret was pulling the restraint too tight for Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit so that he couldn’t breathe. His choice of music, by the way, was Beyoncé.
We rode that twice.
Nicole Garofolo, East Moriches NY
Memorial Website for Funmi 