National Cherry Festival Celebrates A Special Day for Special Ki - Northern Michigan's News Leader

National Cherry Festival Celebrates A Special Day for Special Kids

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Amy Simon's daughter, Gracie, has special needs; but, you would never know it. This morning, she was bouncing around from activity to activity. Today, you're able to see the cherry festival through the eyes of some very special children.

All the activities cater to kids with disabilities; everything from a wheelchair swing to an obstacle course, and an special trip to the Midway where they can get the extra attention they need.

Cindy Hitesman is a retired special education teacher. She started Special Kids' Day years ago because the bright spirit of the children seems to rub off on everyone around them.

It never used to be so crowded; but, year after year, more and more kids come to join the fun and make some memories.

Reporting in Traverse City, Sara Simnitch and Photojournalist, Jeremy Erickson.