Shortly after turning two years old, Ben Layton was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia and bravely battled the disease through chemotherapy, radiation, and a bone marrow transplant. Despite all medicine could offer, he died on May 29, 2002, just three months after his fourth birthday. Aware that he was going to die, Ben daydreamed about the new life he would have after death and believed he would receive not only angel wings, but red angel wings, his favorite color. Inspired by Ben's bravery and in celebration of his spirit, the idea for Ben's Red Swings Community Playground was born. Its red swings recall Ben's angel wings and are meant to help all children who play there share in the soaring joy of childhood.