Cristal Polanco’s Inspiring Journey with Genetic Rickets - Helen Hayes Hospital Honors Assembly 2023

Cristal Polanco lives with a rare genetic form of rickets, which causes a softening and weakening of the bones. She has suffered multiple fractures and has had to undergo multiple surgeries throughout her life. Cristal came to Helen Hayes Hospital’s outpatient department after sustaining a femoral fracture that required surgery. She was uncertain if she would be able to walk independently again, but through her exceptional strength and determination, she accomplished her goals!
Cristal was presented with the Helen Hayes Hospital Medal of Independence at the 123rd Helen Hayes Hospital Honors Assembly on September 19, 2023. Please visit our RUclips Channel for more inspirational honorees from the 2023 Honors Assembly. For more info about inpatient and outpatient rehab, please call 1-888-70-REHAB or visit www.helenhayeshospital.org.