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Luke Madson, 6, was born with a spinal cord injury, which prevents him from playing in playgrounds that are not accessible for kids with special needs

Sarah Madson, Luke's mother, spearheaded a project that led to the creation of an all-abilities playground in Louisville, Ky.

Panther Park opened in July and features flat rubber surfacing, ramps, an adaptive swing and musical components. "We tried to think of something for everyone," she tells PEOPLE

Throughout his young life, Luke Madson, 6, of Louisville, Ky., has been accustomed to sitting out while other children have fun at the local playground. He was born with a spinal cord injury that requires him to use a walker or wheelchair so that he can move on his own — and that poses a challenge for most playgrounds.

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