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World’s first water park for the differently abled

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Robin Jerstad/Jerstad Photographics

I think we’d all like a father as cool as former entrepreneur and current philanthropist, Gordon V. Hartman. 

After witnessing the humiliating public rejection of his daughter, Morgan — who lives with cerebral and physical challenges — Gordon set out to create “a shrine of inclusion” for special needs children and adults. 

And in 2010, Morgan’s Wonderland became the world’s first theme park to be designed for all abilities –and is 100% wheelchair-accessible. 

This past June, the inspiring theme park opened an exciting new leg- Morgan’s Inspiration Island, the world’s first splash park to fully accommodate all levels of physical and cognitive ability. 

Like Morgan’s Wonderland, the tropical themed attraction highlights inclusion and sports an assortment of water-based rides and innovative technology; including a twisting jungle inspired ride - the River Boat Adventure– and air-powered wheelchairs, which are both light weight and waterproof. 

Here’s a look at the extraordinary park: 

Morgan's Inspiration Island

Morgan’s Inspiration Island

Morgan’s Inspiration Island

Morgan’s Inspiration Island

Morgan’s Inspiration Island

Read more: 

What are your thoughts on the need to create spaces of inclusion for all abilities in South Africa? Send your experiences and thoughts to chatback@parent24.com  and we may feature your letters. 

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