Well, when you think about it, there's really no benefit to faking wheelchair use at DragonCon. It makes it harder to get around, not easier & disability services aren't limited to obvious disabilities.

I for one wouldn't think twice if I saw you get up temporarily. I also think that though I'd have no chance of lifting a wheelchair with someone in it - I could handle pulling an empty one over a step. I think it makes complete sense to attempt to go that way and ask for help.

I have no idea about any volunteer protocol.. but I think that if you can find a single person going to the same panel as you, offering to make them your disability +1 in exchange for pushing you would be fair. Other than being able to sit with a friend, that's really the point of having it.