Thoughtful design can make a world of difference in creating inclusive public spaces. Recently, we learned how a product made a profound impact on a family’s life. This story highlights the power of sensory-friendly spaces and how a visit to Pittsburgh International Airport led to a life-changing experience for Jaimee and her autistic son, Gunner.

A Journey to Pittsburgh International Airport

Jaimee and her children, Bella and Gunner, traveled to Pittsburgh International Airport in 2023. Bella, a high-achieving high school senior, was embarking on an exciting trip to Chicago for the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) World Leadership Congress. As they waited for Bella’s flight, the family discovered something that would profoundly impact them, a sensory room called Presley’s Place.

The Power of Presley’s Place

Presley’s Place is a state-of-the-art sensory-friendly space designed to support individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities while navigating the challenges of air travel. Jaimee had never experienced a sensory room and was amazed that such a facility existed in a bustling airport.

Gunner, who has autism and experiences severe overstimulation in crowded environments, was visibly distressed upon arriving at the airport. However, the moment they stepped into the sensory room, everything changed. The dim lighting, quiet environment, and specialized furniture immediately helped Gunner feel at ease. He gravitated toward the “egg chair,” also known as the Sway chair, where he spun, swiveled, and rocked in comfort for an hour. For the first time that day, he was calm, relaxed, and engaged.

Jaimee also found solace in the space. With both children feeling safe and comfortable, she was able to sit down and decompress. When it was time to leave, Gunner was so regulated that he no longer needed his noise-canceling headphones and was able to fully participate in watching his sister board her flight and take off.

Bringing the Sway Chair Home

Deeply moved by the effect the Sway chair had on Gunner, Jaimee began searching for a way to bring one into their home. She tracked down Corbett and inquired about purchasing them through West Virginia’s Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities Waiver (IDDW) program. Unfortunately, she was unable to secure funding through this route. However, upon hearing her story, we knew we had to help, so we donated two chairs for Gunner and his family to enjoy. One for his bedroom and one for the family’s living room.

Jaimee was overwhelmed with gratitude, admitting that she cried upon hearing the news because of how overjoyed she felt. Gunner was ecstatic to learn he would have his own chairs at home.

The Importance of Sensory Spaces

Jaimee’s story highlights the importance of making sensory-friendly spaces accessible in public areas. Many families, like hers, avoid places such as shopping malls and amusement parks due to overstimulating environments. By incorporating sensory rooms into more public spaces, children and adults with autism can experience greater inclusion and the ability to engage in activities they may have otherwise avoided.

For Gunner, the Sway chair represents more than just a piece of furniture, it’s a tool that brings him joy, comfort, and a sense of security. As Jaimee expressed, “Finding something that he can have joy in, and I can see his joy, is huge.”

Looking Forward

Now equipped with the Sway chairs at home, Jaimee is hopeful that Gunner will experience more regulation before outings, allowing them to stay out longer and enjoy more activities as a family. This story serves as an inspiration for businesses, public institutions, and individuals to consider how they can support inclusivity and accessibility for those with sensory needs.

As sensory rooms gain more recognition for the meaningful support they provide, stories like Jaimee’s shine a light on their powerful impact — creating spaces where everyone can feel safe, calm, and included.

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If Jaimee and Gunner’s story resonated with you, we’d love to connect!
‍Please contact us to learn more about the Sway chair.

‍And if you’re curious about sensory-friendly tools and toys that can make a difference,
‍check out some of our favorites here: fluxspace.io/products/tfh!