10/07/2025
Every now and then we get to highlight the amazing work of some of the staff at CGCH. Kristin is one of the NPs that works in our emergency department. Check out below some of the exciting work she has done and that is coming up for her and her community!
"To be located in Mascoutah, Illinois this playground will be an Unlimited Play inclusive playground — a place where limitations will be forgotten and differences are celebrated!
At 24 weeks gestation, our son, Brody was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. Before he even entered this world, he affected so many people and continues to change people's lives with his resilience, courage, and captivating spirit. At 3 years of age, he was diagnosed with Severe Nonverbal Autism. Once you become a parent of a child with special needs, you soon find out what you are truly made of. You find strength and tenacity from a place inside yourself, you never thought possible.
We started to notice that a great deal of these kids were being overlooked, including when it comes to social inclusion and play. So last February, I decided to build a playground in Mascoutah that provides a place for all children, regardless of abilities, to play and interact. This playground will have such a positive impact on our community. These children and adults, remind us that diversity is not something to be tolerated but celebrated. Their differences make our world richer, more vibrant, and more compassionate. They remind us that every person, regardless of their abilities, has something valuable to contribute.
I am so thankful to be a part of helping to spread the magic that is inside each and every one of these kiddos. Together, we can build a future that embraces the extraordinary in every child."
Check out the playground below!
