The Story
Karter is an energetic, loving five-year-old with autism spectrum disorder and global developmental delays. His curiosity and energy lead him to constantly seek sensory input—jumping, climbing, rolling, and finding pressure or tight spaces to feel calm. Unable to recognize danger, everyday life requires his parents to stay vigilant. Simple moments, like cooking or stepping away, can feel overwhelming.
To give Karter a safe place to play, learn, and grow, Sunshine on a Ranney Day created a custom in-home therapy space. By enclosing the family’s formal living room with lockable doors, SOARD provided a secure, adventure-ready environment. Now, Karter can climb, swing, snuggle, and explore freely without risk of eloping.
The room suits Karter’s personality and interests. Designer Clareece brought his love of space to life with a unique galaxy-inspired theme and a hand-painted mural that transforms the room. A former closet became a cozy snuggle cubby, offering Karter a calming retreat.
With the expertise of Mike Kamber, the Therapy Gyms team, and therapist Melissa Buffin, the room is equipped with purposeful, sensory-rich features, including a custom climbing gym, monkey bars, climbing holds, and a therapeutic swing. Thanks to the generous donation from Comfort Research, soft, squishy bean bags provide a safe landing zone for Karter as he explores and plays.
This transformation has not only created a safe and joyful environment for Karter but also given his family something truly invaluable—peace of mind. They can now experience moments of rest and joy, knowing their son is safe and thriving in a space designed just for him.
This project was made possible by the generosity of our sponsors and partners, especially The Fogas Family Giving Trust, JM Wilkerson Construction, Randall Brothers, Sherwin-Williams, Service Wise, Georgia Interior Painting, and Nothing Bundt Cakes. Special thanks as well to Niki Murphy for the photography and to iFrame Media for the video.
