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Writer's pictureChris Welford

Creating Inclusive Play: An Interview with Lumiere Charity

Introduction

Welcome, readers, to an inspiring journey behind the scenes of Lumiere, a charity changing the landscape for children and young adults with disabilities. Today, we’re sitting down with Linda and Melissa, the amazing souls who fuel this incredible mission. Lumiere, aptly named after the French word for "light," seeks to illuminate lives through thoughtfully designed play and sensory spaces. Let's look deeper into their journey, inspiration, and hopeful future!


Man in wheelchair next to a young boy in a Liverpool Football Kit

1. Introducing Linda.. and Lumiere

Interviewer: Please introduce yourself and tell us more about your charity.

Linda: Thank you! I’m Linda, and our family is graced with Jaxon, Melissa’s wonderful son, and four other beautiful kids. Together with my sister, we've embarked on this heartfelt journey of raising Jaxon, who has a rare genetic disorder called Kabuki syndrome. Our charity, Lumiere—meaning "light" in French—was born from our experiences. Lumiere is dedicated to crafting soft play and sensory spaces tailored for children and young adults with disabilities. Our mission is to sprinkle a bit of light and joy into the lives of families like ours, which is where Inclusive Play by Lumiere Charity came into the fold.


2. The Heart Behind Lumiere: Inspiration and Motivation

Interviewer: What inspired you to start your charity?

Linda: The driving force behind Lumiere has always been our family’s daily struggles and triumphs. Social outings with Jaxon have often been tough—his Kabuki syndrome makes busy, noisy environments overwhelming. We’ve witnessed how children with disabilities face similar challenges, leading to anxious, distressing moments for both the kids and their parents. Our goal was to change this. We envisioned a haven where children can play, explore, and enjoy themselves without fear or anxiety and where families can find understanding and support free from judgment.


3. Lumiere's Mission: Building a Supportive Community and Inclusive Play With Lumiere Charity

Interviewer: What is the aim and purpose of your charity?

Linda: As Jaxon grows older, we constantly worry about the support and resources available to him in the future. This concern is shared by many parents, whether or not their child has a disability. Lumiere aims to create safe, comforting spaces where kids can learn, laugh, and build friendships unhindered. We also strive to make parents and carers feel at home, connecting them with others who share understanding and experiences. Ultimately, our vision is to cultivate an inclusive community brimming with support, ensuring no one faces their hardships alone.


4. Dreams and Goals: The Future of Lumiere

Interviewer: Where do you hope to be in the future with your charity?

Linda: The future holds so much promise for Lumiere! We are brimming with plans and aspirations. I’m the visionary in the family, constantly dreaming of what’s next, while Melissa keeps us grounded and focused on the present. This balance is essential and makes us a great team. As for our future plans, you’ll have to stay tuned! We like to keep some surprises up our sleeve to maintain the excitement. Rest assured, we are committed to expanding Lumiere and making a profound impact in all the communities we touch.


Family around the man in a wheelchair

Conclusion and Call to Action

It’s clear that Linda, Melissa, and their family have poured their hearts into Lumiere, driven by their experiences and desire to foster an inclusive, supportive community. Their story is inspiring and a vivid reminder of the transformative power of empathy, understanding, and collective effort.


If their words have moved you, we encourage you to take action today. Whether you volunteer, spread the word, or offer financial support, every little bit helps light up the lives of those who need it most. Let's create a brighter, more inclusive world for children like Jaxon.


Join them and share the light. Become a part of Lumiere.


Please visit our website for more information on how you can get involved. Together, we can make a lasting difference.

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