Our Inspiration
The Cain Family
Our son, Baylor, was born May 9th, 2016. He was diagnosed a few weeks later with a genetic condition called Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA.) This diagnosis was very difficult to receive, as those affected by SMA experience the progressive loss of muscles that are used for breathing, eating, crawling, and walking. While there is no cure for SMA, there are therapies now available for those affected. Baylor had the worst degree of SMA, and these therapies were not yet available at that time. He unfortunately passed away at three months old due to the complications associated with SMA, but his memory will never be forgotten. Baylor had a contagious smile and loved being outside looking at the trees.
Many of those affected by SMA have various disabilities, including potentially being wheelchair users. Which is why, in memory of Baylor, we started to take his two younger brothers to numerous all abilities playgrounds. Through visiting these playgrounds, we are able to teach our kids empathy and acceptance of everyone’s differences. It is important to our family that every child has the ability to play with their parents and peers without boundaries.
We feel strongly that no playground should be built without every child in mind. This all-abilities playground is a way for our family to honor our son, Baylor, for generations to come. Where the spirit of Baylor shines upon kids and their families through connection and love.
The Wade Family
Jake and Kelsey both grew up in Kewaskum, attended Kewaskum schools, and are active members of the community. They now have two kids, Bennett and Mackenzie, who will also grow up in Kewaskum. As a special education teacher in Kewaskum, Kelsey believes it is important for every child to have the opportunity to play, explore, and interact with their peers in appropriate settings. Having an all-inclusive playground in Kewaskum would not only allow opportunities for kids with varying abilities, but for her kids to be provided with more opportunities to interact and include them in their everyday activities.
The Theisen Family (Wrenleigh)
Tocarra and her husband, Josh, are raising their family in the Village of Kewaskum. In 2020, they faced an unimaginable loss when they said goodbye to their daughter, Wrenleigh. This heartbreak has deeply shaped their family’s mission, guiding them toward something meaningful and lasting.
Tocarra has become an advocate for the creation of the all-abilities playground in Kewaskum. This project is more than just a playground—it’s a vision for a space where families, no matter what challenges they face, can come together to play, connect, and be part of a supportive community.
For Tocarra and her family, this playground is a tribute to Wrenleigh. It’s not just a place for fun and recreation—it’s a symbol of inclusion, a place where children can learn, grow, and feel the spirit of Wrenleigh. It’s a space here every child, regardless of ability, can experience the simple joy of play alongside others.
They can’t wait to see the smiles that this playground will bring, knowing it’s a legacy of love and inclusion for all those involved, that will last for generations in their very own hometown.
The Theisen Family (Morgan)
Melissa is a mom to three boys. She and her husband, Matt, recently welcomed twins, Riley and Merritt, to their family. Their oldest son, Morgan, was born in June 2021 and spent his life at Children’s Wisconsin due to complex medical needs. Living at the hospital alongside Morgan for 82 days opened their eyes to so much—first, how the support of medical professionals, friends, family, and community members not only made a difference in their lives but also allowed them to be fully present for Morgan every second they had with him. And second, how medical challenges reshape families, often making something as simple as play feel out of reach.
Though his life was filled with challenges, Morgan was pure joy. In his short time earthside, and through the people he brought into their lives, he taught Melissa and Matt the greatest thing we can do for each other is reach out a hand to help. The all-abilities playground is one way they are doing just that—”playing it forward”; by helping the Creekside Camp Committee create a space where every child in Kewaskum and Washington County, regardless of ability, can experience the joy of play and truly be included.
The Schotzko Family
Our sweet Reagan’s journey began when she was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS), a congenital heart defect, at our 20-week ultrasound. This condition is typically treated with a series of three open-heart surgeries. At just three days old, Reagan underwent her first surgery, and doctors soon told us her best chance for survival would be a heart transplant. After six long months, Reagan received a new heart and was able to go home just 20 days post-transplant.
Since then, Reagan has made incredible progress and continues to reach new milestones. However, for her, milestones aren’t just about developmental growth; they also include regular echocardiograms, yearly heart catheterizations, daily medications, and ongoing lab tests to prevent rejection. While these procedures are essential for her health, they also come with risks that can impact Reagan’s growth, development, and cognitive abilities.
As Reagan continues to thrive, we’ve realized the importance of supporting all families, no matter their child's ability. Children with varying needs deserve the opportunity to play, grow, and experience the joy of being included, no matter what challenges they may face. We believe in the power of inclusion, and we know that creating a space for all children to thrive will have a profound impact on our entire community.
Ways to Donate:
Check Instructions:
Make check payable to Unlimited Play and mail to:
Unlimited Play
5988 Mid Rivers Mall Drive, Suite 230
St. Peters, MO 63304
Write “Creekside Camp All Abilities Playground” in memo.
Credit Card Instructions:
Click here to pay with a credit card or click the “Donate to this Playground” button on the top right of this page. and write “Creekside Camp All Abilities Playground” in the “Indicate Specific Playground or Event” text box.
* Check / CC donations of $250 or more will receive a tax donation letter in the mail.
In-kind Donations
From fencing to concrete – there are several opportunities to contribute to the playground through donating materials and labor. Contact shannon@unlimitedplay.org for more information about in-kind donations.
Sponsorship Levels
Director: $250,000+
Counselor: $150,000
Camper: $100,000
Kayaker: $50,000
Explorer: $10,000
Lightning bug: $5,000
Tadpole $1,000
