TYRONE, BLAIR COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) — A local woman is working in honor of her special needs grandson to raise awareness about the importance of inclusion.

Doctors diagnosed Penny Brunner’s grandson, Miles, with a rare genetic disease six and a half years ago. 

The grandmother said it’s her mission to advocate for “all abilities” playground equipment, so kids just like Miles can enjoy a day at the park

Miles beat the odds of survival, surpassing the doctor’s prognosis.

“He is currently one of only 500 living cases of the world of glycine encephalopathy,” Brunner said,

The 6 year old, completely immobile and blind, has no control over his body.

Brunner said her family felt out of place at playgrounds in the past.

“We have to include these families in recreation,” she said.

Now, the grandmother wants every playground to include “all abilities.” 

“Some of these children’s lives are very short and every minute counts, so every minute counts with my grandson,” Brunner said.

Crews installed rubber mat flooring on Monday, so all the kids stay safe while having fun on the new equipment.

Brunner said she’s also working with Altoona Mayor Matt Pacifico to bring a playground like this to Prospect Park in the near future.