“He couldn’t play at a regular playground”: Monroe mother raises money for inclusive playground in honor of son

MONROE, La. (KTVE/KARD) — Children all across Monroe, La, built lemonade stands to raise money not for themselves, but for a new inclusive playground in Forsythe Park. The initiative began when one local mother says her wheelchair bound son could not play at the regular playgrounds.

Our son Benjamin was born with a rare genetic disease and he was in a wheelchair and knew he couldn’t play at a regular playground so we wanted to create places for him initially but now that he’s passed away we want to create a place for kids like him everywhere.

Hillary Sirmon

The new playground will be fully accessible to those with or without a disability so that no child feels excluded, no matter their background. Benjamin’s sister, Kateri, is getting involved at the young age of 8-years-old.

Kateri says she’s honoring her brother by making a difference.

I want to help other people with all abilities, feel included.

Kateri Sirmon

To donate to the construction of the new inclusive playground at Forsythe Park, you can visit johnclarkeperryfoundation.com and specify “Playground” in the memo.