Make-A-Wish Foundation grants local girl’s wish to add new accessible swing

Make-A-Wish Orange County and the Inland Empire and the City of La Quinta granted the wish of Liberty, an 18-year-old diagnosed with Lennox Gastaut Syndrome who needs a new swing at her favorite park.

The City of La Quinta installed a brand-new accessible swing at La Quinta Park located on the corner of Blackhawk Way and Adams Street in La Quinta to celebrate this special moment with Make-A Wish staff and donors, Liberty, and her family.

Her father says the wish was very fitting of her. 

"The simple things are what makes people like Liberty happy," Liberty's father said.

Typical swings aren't safe for Liberty because of her epilepsy, she's at risk of falling out and getting seriously hurt. That's why it's important to have an accessible swing like this where Liberty can enjoy just like all the other kids have fun and still stay safe.

Gloria Crockett, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish Orange County and the Inland Empire, says a wish like this hasn't been done before. 

"I think this is probably one of our first swings in a public park that we've ever done. And so that makes it really, really unique," Crockett said.

It's a wish that will not only affect Anderson but other kids who live with disabilities.

"It's also kind of like a wish to have no wish to give, because Liberty wanted a swing that's in a public park that other kids can use," Crockett added.

La Quinta Mayor Linda Evans was in attendance. The city ultimately provided the funds to make Liberty's wish a reality. 

"This was something that opened our eyes to recognize that there are children and people in our city with lots of different needs," Evans said.

Liberty's mother, Melissa Anderson, is now hopeful to see more accessible swings locally in the future.

"This would be really wonderful if this takes off. And, and the city says, let's put in something else that, you know, kids with handicap or special needs, can enjoy and have at the park to meet their needs as well," Melissa said.

With Liberty is eager to spread her love and joy with others.