When we arrived, we realized that The House doesn’t care what your diagnosis is, about your financial status, or where you come from. They care about making sure children have their family by their side and a community to support them, no matter what. I knew that our family belonged at the Ronald McDonald House.`` — Krystal, Zoey’s Mom
From left to right are Adam and Krystal, Zoey’s mom and dad, and Zoey beside them.
When Zoey was born, doctors in her rural Nevada town didn’t realize how serious her condition was. At age five, Zoey was diagnosed with Cranial Cystinosis, a rare disorder that prevents the skull from growing properly. During what was meant to be a routine appointment, Dr. Grant, a visiting Stanford physician, told the Gravelin’s that Zoey needed urgent surgery—nearly 300 miles away from home.
We were scared, but our arrival at the Ronald McDonald House was a turning point.”
— Krystal, Zoey's Mom
When Zoey and her mom first arrived at Ronald McDonald House at Stanford, they quickly realized it was more than just a room. It was a community.
At home, playgrounds and public spaces weren’t designed for Zoey. She often felt left out, misunderstood, and excluded. But at the House, everything was different. Here, she was greeted with open arms, included in games, and celebrated by friends who saw her—not her diagnosis.
The House has given us a gift: a place where Zoey can simply be herself, accepted for who she is.``
Over the years, the Gravelins have returned for multiple surgeries and ongoing care as part of Zoey’s healthcare journey. Each stay has given their family more than a roof—it’s given them memories that carry them through the hardest days.
From Bingo nights to craft activities, from holiday celebrations to Zoey’s first-ever summer camp, the House made sure her childhood was filled with joy and belonging.
The House makes sure we all have memories outside of those days going back and forth to the hospital.`` — Krystal, Zoey's Mom
For the Gravelins, Ronald McDonald House is more than a place to stay—it’s a lifeline. They’ve found nourishment in warm meals, strength in the community of other families, and hope in knowing they’re never alone.
Your generosity makes these moments possible. You help children like Zoey thrive and families like the Gravelins stay together when it matters most.
We hope hearing the Gravelin's family story, you are able to reflect on the impact you can have with a legacy gift to our charity. By leaving a gift in your will, you are not just making a financial contribution; you are planting seeds of compassion that will resonate through generations. Together, we can uplift families, transforming moments of despair into hope.
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