I Refused to Let a Family Tragedy Ruin My Christmas

Morgan Hartman was born with physical and cognitive disabilities that limited her ability to enjoy the world like other children. In 2006, Gordon, her dad, saw Morgan eager to join the other kids at a hotel pool, only to be met with hesitation and reluctance. This moment set in motion a journey that would lead to the creation of Morgan’s Wonderland, a theme park built specifically for individuals with special needs. The space where children, regardless of ability, could connect, play, and learn from each other.
He decided that this would be a place where every child could enjoy themselves, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities.
Gordon wasn’t just thinking of his daughter. He was thinking of the thousands of families with disabled children who also faced similar barriers. His response? To sell everything he had and invest his life savings into building something that would bring joy to these families.
Unlike most theme parks, Morgan’s Wonderland was designed with inclusivity in mind, ensuring that no one feels left out. The ground is covered with soft, safe materials, the paths are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs, and the rides themselves are designed to be enjoyed by children with various disabilities.
Specially designed rides are one of the unique features of the park. For example, the Sensory Village allows children to engage in creative activities like playing with water and sand in a sensory-friendly environment. The park also boasts an entirely wheelchair-accessible carousel, and its sensory-friendly theater offers a safe space for families to enjoy movies together.
A particularly heartwarming aspect of the park is the commitment to providing free admission to those with special needs.
The expansion further solidified the park’s commitment to creating a world where everyone can participate, regardless of their challenges.
Morgan’s Inspiration Island features water attractions like a fully wheelchair-accessible riverboat ride, as well as cooling zones that provide a refreshing escape for all guests, especially those with special needs. It was designed with thoughtful elements to ensure that everyone can enjoy the water without barriers: specially designed waterproof wheelchairs that guests can use throughout the park.
The park also has a sensory space, which is equipped with calming lights, sounds, and other sensory elements to help children with autism or sensory processing challenges.
At the start, Gordon’s guiding motto was: “Together, we CAN make a difference!” Today, after countless successes and many more on the way, his motto has evolved to: “Together, we ARE making a difference!”
By creating this park, Gordon didn’t just build a theme park—he built a community, a place where everyone belongs. It stands as a testament to what love and dedication can achieve.
As you reflect on this story, remember this: kindness doesn’t need a reason. And these 11 stories will prove that compassion can appear when you least expect it, making the world a better place one small act at a time.