NEW BRAUNFELS, Texas – Chick-fil-A is already known for having a packed house of hungry customers, but Tuesday's full crowd at the WestPointe location in New Braunfels was all for a special reason.
- Michael Villanueva worked at Chick-Fil-A for 5 years
- Had to leave work for medical issues
- GoFundMe available for more donations
The restaurant held a "Pack The House" event, with all the proceeds from breakfast, lunch, and dinner benefiting a veteran cashier who's made personal connections with many members of the New Braunfels community.
Due to severe medical issues, cashier Michael Villanueva had to take a step away from his post at the register to work on his health.
"I've been seeing a vascular surgeon, podiatrist, endocrinologist. Not to mention, I still have other issues that I need to address, that has to do with my health. I'm gonna blame it on diabetes, you know, because that's what I have," Villanueva said.
He said while he has insurance, it only covers so much, and the bills keep adding up. That's why when his team from Chick-Fil-A approached him with the idea for a benefit event, he became overwhelmed.
"I'm like, this is a dream. I thought I was dreaming because this is epic for me. I was 50 years when I got here, and I'm 55 now," Villanueva said, "I've just met so many people and I have a tendency to remember names. And, you know, this is the result."
Villanueva has had plenty of time to get to know his customers. And now, those customers who have felt special due to his friendly service got the chance to give back to him.
"I've known Michael, and really have come to this particular Chick-Fil-A for about three years," customer Jack Striegel said, "Michael made an immediate impression on me just trying to get to know my name. He pretty much knew what I ordered every time. And every time I came, I always wanted to go to Michael. He just made you feel special."
Even the New Braunfels High School cheer squad showed up with a "Get Well Soon" sign to make Villanueva's day.
"We brought it to cheer practice this morning and we had the whole team sign it," said cheerleader Taylor Burrell. "He is the nicest guy ever, he helps everyone out and is so sweet. So we just thought that we could help him out a little."
Villanueva hopes to return to work and get back to making people's day.
"I mean, that's just me, it's not a put-on. I like to treat people like I would like to be treated when I frequent restaurants," Villanueva said, "Slowly but surely, I'm seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. So, hopefully, I'll be back, even if it's baby steps."
If you couldn't make it to Tuesday's event and would still like to donate to help with medical expenses, a GoFundMe account* has been set up.
*This Gofundme.com site is not managed by Spectrum News. For more information on how the site works and the rules visit gofundme.com/safety.