It was in 2011 when our journey began that has inspired us to develop a playground where everyone can play. That inspiration is our son, Michael "MJ". We didn't know until MJ was about six months old that he would be diagnosed with Pallister Killian Syndrome. This is a rare disorder and has broad impacts to the body to include loss of mobility, speech, hearing, vision, cognitive delays and epilepsy. Every child with this has different challenges. MJ is challenged with mobility, epilepsy, and cognitive delays. This gives him the opportunity to overcome challenges others thought weren’t possible. MJ underwent many medical procedures, including two hip surgeries. We spend quite a bit of time in exam rooms and therapies. No matter what he faces, he faces it with courage and strength. As MJ is growing, we continue to learn his chosen path for development. We have also learned that he is a determined little boy.

Several times, we have experienced moments where MJ isn't given the opportunity to be included or is limited at the chance to participate in certain settings. It is heartbreaking in many ways. Our desire to have children of all abilities learn, play, and socialize together is because of these happenings.

A moment that happens to us frequently is that heart wrenching moment when we hear someone say, "don't stare". This is because MJ has a unique, fun-loving way about him. He is in a wheelchair and his communication is not what everyone is used to.....but it is MJ. We want children to look at MJ and interact with him. We want MJ to learn from all children he interacts with as well. How do we change that powerful "don't stare" moment? Our answer is to have MJ, and others with unique needs, always be included. Let’s play together!

While we have faced many other challenges as a family, we continue to stay focused on how we can make a difference for all children. MJ has taught us so much about life and continues to challenge us to be better parents and advocates. Watching him continue to overcome every obstacle he is faced with inspires us to look at ways to better his quality of life.

In 2015, MJ began working with a very driven physical therapist, Sonya Smith. We quickly learned about her passion for working with children with disabilities and believing in them to exceed all expectations through motion. Sonya saw such great potential in MJ and knew he could overcome any challenges that may come his way. MJ’s abilities have flourished due to his endless determination. Sonya continues to help MJ conquer his obstacles as well as provide our family much support. We are forever grateful for having Sonya and her family in our lives.

A few years ago, I (Nanci) mentioned the idea of an all abilities playground to Sonya. I was aware of a family who was fundraising for an inclusive playground in another state. It was at that time Sonya looked at me and said “So, when are we getting our own {all-abilities} playground?” 

After small conversations here and there, and knowing we live in such a beautiful supportive community, my husband (Mike) decided we needed to make this dream become a reality. We put together a committee that we knew would make this dream happen. Sonya has been very instrumental in making this dream a reality and we couldn’t have done this without her or our supportive families.