All children love a day out at a theme park, and while expense can often be an issue for some families, sheer accessibility is a problem for those living with disabilities. This is why a water park in Texas is making headlines this week.
Gordon and Maggie Hartman have received widespread praise for launching what they have dubbed as the ‘world’s first wheelchair-accessible water park’.
Morgan’s Inspiration Island, an off-shoot of the theme park Morgan’s Wonderland, was created to cater specifically to families who are living with disabilities but still want to enjoy some summer fun at a water park.
The idea for the entire theme park was inspired by the Hartmans’ daughter, Morgan, who has physical and cognitive disabilities. Her parents didn’t want her to miss out on the same fun her friends were enjoying, just because she is a little different.
Unveiled and opened to the public last weekend, Morgan’s Inspiration Island has six attractions created with people with mobility difficulties in mind.
Along with a jungle-themed river boat ride that rises up to meet the level of the wheelchairs, there are five tropical-themed splash pads and play areas decked out with geysers and water jets for children to enjoy.
Park management have thought everything through, here: specially designed, lightweight, waterproof wheelchairs are available to visitors free of charge, along with waterproof buggies. Service animals are also allowed in the park, so no one has to give up their support buddy just to have a little fun.
Now, we know that many young people with mobility issues also face other struggles in their daily life, which is why Morgan’s Inspiration Island is so great.
Not only does the park have a water-temperature control system, for those visitors with sensitivity to the cold; there are also special quiet areas for those affected by noise sensitivity, and special wristbands designed to locate adventurers with a penchant for wandering off. They also have a special system set up for those who have trouble queuing.
Such an ideal place must come at a hefty price, right? Wrong! Families visiting the park have been delighted to discover that entry is free for anyone with a disability, with standard adult and child fees coming in at $17 and $11 for adults and children, respectively.
Explaining the inspiration behind the park, co-founder Gordon Hartman said: “Children and adults who have special needs are sometimes left out, not because they want to be but, sometimes, things are not always adequate for them to use.”
We cannot applaud the Hartmans enough for their innovative idea. We’re sure they are going to make this summer amazing for many families.
