SPOKANE, Wash. — For many families around Spokane, a ride on the Looff Carrousel represents a cherished tradition, but it’s not always an easy option for every child.
“This carousel, it’s like the heart of the community,” said Julie German-Murray, founder of the Rosalie Murray Memorial Foundation.
German-Murray founded the foundation after her late daughter, Rosalie, who passed away at three-years-old and had special needs.
The foundation’s mission is to make early childhood learning opportunities and experiences inclusive for children with disabilities.
Sunday’s event at the carousel specifically addressed barriers that often prevent children with sensory sensitivities from enjoying the historic ride.
“A lot of families don’t feel comfortable bringing their kids either because it’s actually not accessible to them, or they worry that it might not be accessible,” German-Murray said.
The modifications to the ride were simple but significant: no music, bells or flashing lights. These changes made all the difference for families like Deanna Stark and her daughter.
“I realized a lot, with her, that sometimes the disability isn’t necessarily her, it’s the environment. [It just needs] a tweak, and then it’s not a disability for her anymore because it’s not a barrier,” Stark said.
During Sunday’s event, Stark watched her daughter enjoy the carousel without distress.
“It’s so fun to see her just be able to be free too,” she said.
The event, held during May Rosalie Murray’s birth month, drew hundreds of attendees. For German-Murray, the day represents both a celebration of her daughter’s life and a way to create lasting impact.
“We get to celebrate her legacy through giving this experience to the community, which is just a really, really heartwarming thing,” she said.
For more information on the Rosalie Murray Memorial Foundation, click HERE.
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