From NICU to Ferris Wheel: How Accessibility Redefines Childhood for 400 Families
The annual Fall Fest brought families to Morgan's Wonderland for a day of rides and trick-or-treating, marking a milestone for children who spent their first days in intensive care.
By Renata Mehta ·
University Health transported hundreds of families to Morgan's Wonderland in Austin this week. The group consisted of children born prematurely or with developmental challenges who received care at the health center. The annual Fall Fest event took place on Halloween, allowing participants to enjoy the park's attractions in costume.
Morgan's Wonderland is built for accessibility. Its ferris wheel, slides, carousels, and dining area, WingZ of Wonder, are designed for guests with various mobility challenges. The design allows children with special needs to participate fully in the rides and activities.
The attendees are graduates of three specific University Health programs. The PREMIEre program supports premature infants. The NICU Graduate Program offers medical, developmental, and nutritional support during the first two years of life. The Comprehensive Care Clinic provides services for the first five years.
Dr. Glen Medellin, a palliative pediatrician at University Health, has treated many of the children in attendance. He noted that the event serves a purpose beyond entertainment. It allows families to step away from their medical routines for a day.
"It's beautiful to see these children out here, not sick and with their families," Medellin said. "It makes them feel normal."
The health center's team helped manage the logistics for the large group. Families moved through the park to access the trick-or-treating stations and rides. The outing highlighted the progress of patients who have completed their initial intensive care periods.
Source: Texas Public Radio
