Sebastian's Playground opens in Solon, a tribute to boy who died from rare disease
SOLON, Ohio (WJW) – Dozens of families flocked to a brand new playground at Solon Community Park. It's a lasting tribute to a little boy who died of a rare disease three years ago.
Sebastian's Playground is specially designed to accommodate children of all abilities, no matter what challenge they might face.
'I love that, I truly do. All kids should feel equal. No matter if you're totally 100% healthy or you're a healthy needs kids, you know, all kids just want to have fun,' said India Howard.
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The playground is inspired by four-year-old Sebastian Botirius, who died in 2022 after a courageous battle with a rare genetic disorder, LRBA Deficiency.
Sebastian loved to go to the park and his final wish was to visit a playground.
It prompted his parents to launch a campaign to build a play area that everyone could enjoy.
'I don't want people to remember Sebastian as a four-year-old that died. I want them to remember him as a four-year-old that lived and he brought lots and lots of joy both during his life and after,' Sebastian's father, Kip Botirius, said.
The family's dream of creating Sebastian's Playground became a reality because of the generosity of Northeast Ohioans who were touched by his story and donated more than $150,000 toward the project.
Sebastian's parents and his brother Jackson cut the ribbon for the grand opening of the playground on Saturday. On Monday night, families enjoying the unique play area gave it the Solon 'seal of approval.'
'It's amazing. I mean, for someone who lived such a short life to inspire so many beautiful positive things,' said Sara Balkanyi.
'It's so heartfelt. It makes you feel good that they wanted something for other kids,' grandparent Teena Barnes said.
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Three years after Sebastian's death, the playground that was born out of heartbreaking grief is now a source of great joy.
'I think he's smiling. I think Sebastian is smiling, he's happy,' said Howard.
'I can feel him when I'm here, I can see signs and I know he's just happy. He's just happy with all the joy and all the kids,' said Kip.
Sebastian's family is hoping to eventually build similar playgrounds in other communities across Ohio and the country. Donations can be made at sebastiansplaygrounds.org.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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