“When families are living in survival mode, it’s easy to forget what normal feels like,” said Ronald McDonald House Atlanta grandparent Krystal Harris. “The Ronald McDonald House reminded us that even in the middle of fear and uncertainty, there is still room for joy, compassion, and unforgettable memories.”
For Krystal’s grandchildren, Kamden and Kove Whaley, many of their first milestone moments have been spent in hospitals. When Kamden turned two years old, he spent his birthday at the Ronald McDonald House in Gainesville, Florida, while undergoing testing and receiving specialized care for cystic fibrosis.
This year, when Kamden’s brother Kove was born at just 33 weeks gestation, their family found themselves once again relying on the Ronald McDonald House—this time in Atlanta. Since birth, Kove has faced more challenges than any newborn should. He struggled to maintain his heart rate and oxygen levels, had difficulty gaining weight, required specialized feeding tubes, intensive monitoring, and the care of multiple specialists.
As Kamden’s third birthday approached, Krystal shared, “As a grandmother, it broke my heart knowing that his special day would once again be spent at the hospital while his little brother fought through medical challenges.” When Ronald McDonald House Atlanta partnered with Zoo Atlanta, it gave Kamden a birthday he will never forget. He explored the zoo with a big smile on his face and was even able to go ziplining.
“For a few precious hours, hospital rooms, medical equipment, and uncertainty were replaced with laughter, animals, adventure, and pure childhood joy,” said Krystal. For Kamden’s family, watching him simply be a happy little boy was a gift the entire family desperately needed.
Kamden’s birthday celebration continued that evening with cake at Ronald McDonald House Atlanta, joined by friends he has made at the House.
“There are moments in life that forever change your family, and for ours, Ronald McDonald House Atlanta has become more than just a place to stay—it has become a place of comfort, hope, and kindness during some of our hardest days,” said Krystal. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you, for giving families hope, support, and moments that help us breathe again.”
