Playland open

Friday afternoon was special for Jeff and Andrea Cunningham, the Cape Girardeau couple who founded Melaina's Magical Playland.

The all-accessible playground at Cape County Park North, inspired by their daughter Melaina who died from a neuromuscular disease, had its official opening with swarms of children enjoying the new facility.

A massive fundraising effort over five years helped make the new playground possible, and the Cunninghams are grateful for the community's generosity.

"It's actually more than I ever imagined," Andrea Cunningham told the Southeast Missourian in a recent story. " ... People in the community really stepped up to bring it to life in the way [we] dreamed it would be."

We echo this sentiment. Having a facility such as the playland will allow all children and their parents to enjoy the playground fun. The Cunninghams have been quick to point out that this facility is for everyone, not just children with disabilities.

It took many people to help make this possible. From the Cunninghams' vision, to donations from civic clubs, private businesses and local governments, the finished project was a community effort.

Friday's ribbon cutting was a major accomplishment, but there will be needs going forward to help update the facility. Donations are appreciated, and you can learn more about the playland at magicalplayland.org.

Congratulations to the Cunninghams and all those who helped make this possible.