Krystal was born in Yuma with cleft palate and birth defects in her hands and feet. Since she was two months old she’s received specialized care in Tucson — multiple surgeries and monthly doctor visits and visits to the Ronald McDonald House. Our staff has watched her grow up and also befriended mom and dad, Theresa and Jesus, and big sister Frankie.

So far, the Encinas Family has stayed at the Ronald McDonald House for 57 nights. Every time they visit, Jesus and Theresa tell us how very much they appreciate everything we do for them and the girls. “I can’t imagine Krystal going through everything she has been through and everything ahead of her if she didn’t have the Ronald McDonald House,” Jesus said.

Last month when he told her that she was going to have another surgery, she cried for a minute or two and then said, “Oh well, I guess that’s what I have to do, but I will be okay because I get to go to the Ronald McDonald House.”

Krystal has grown up to be a kind and confident little girl. After a facial surgery this month she came to the front desk still bruised from the surgery and asked if she could “volunteer” for us. Cheri Goldman, our Director of House Operations, asked her what she wanted to do and she said, “I want to wipe off the germs from all the doors ‘cause we have to take care of this place.”

Her time at the Ronald McDonald House has helped teach her the importance of giving back – and she’s only five!