Last August, seventeen-year-old Renata Ruiz was diagnosed with a type of blood cancer that affects how white blood cells work. Because Renata was born with Down syndrome, she was more likely to get secondary infections and needed to start chemotherapy right away.

The closest oncologist was at Banner Children’s Diamond Children’s Medical Center—more than an hour from her home in Rio Rico, Arizona.

Renata’s parents, Jorge and Gloria, were prepared to make that drive every day so they could be by her side through every treatment. As they planned for long days on the road, a social worker told them about a better option: the Ronald McDonald House.

The House was just minutes from the hospital and offered more than a bed to sleep in. It was a place where they found comfort, support, and other families who understood what they were going through.

“Without the Ronald McDonald House, it was going to be 1,000 times more difficult,” said Jorge. “The people at the House are the most loving, caring, and understanding people in the world. In a situation like this, that’s everything you need.”

The House also gave them something they didn’t think would be possible: Thanksgiving together. Thanks to volunteers who lovingly prepared turkey with all the fixings, Jorge, Gloria, and Renata’s brother were able to bring the holiday meal to her hospital room. It was a Thanksgiving they’ll always remember.

Today, Renata is doing much better and her bubbly and vivacious personality takes center stage.