My 2 year-old daughter Lolo has recently been diagnosed with Rett syndrome. Rett syndrome robbed my daughter's ability to speak and to use her hands. She also never learned how to walk. She will soon need a wheelchair. Prior to this diagnosis, I never really noticed how parks are not accessible in the city of Ottawa. Unfortunately, many parks are not accessible for my daughter and other children needing mobility aids.

That is why, I am suggesting that every new park built in Ottawa include accessible features and structures. For example, we can add a ramp to the main structure. We can add a wheelchair swing. We can make sure the sensory boards are at the bottom of the structure instead of the top. We can add communication boards for non-verbal children.

All children deserve the opportunity to play at their local park.