I have done the gate pass thing many times...however every time, the person purchasing the ticket is the one who has to request the gate pass. I have seen people walk up to the counter asking for gate pass at the last minute, and the answer is no.

Have the person who is buying the ticket request the gate pass on their reservation...AND it has to be a legit reason. You can not just go out there to go out there. Helping with baby, and helping with elderly, you should be OK.