In Memory of Cristian: Aid for the Salazar-Alexander Family

Hi, my name is Michelle Spiess, and I have known the Salazar family for nearly 45 years. I have created this fundraiser to help Yessica Salazar and her family as they process an unimaginable loss.

On Thursday, September 25th, a devastating fire took the life of a sweet and gentle soul, Cristian, at just 15 years old.

Born on May 3, 2010, Cristian brought endless light and love into this world. He was the beloved son of Yessica (Salazar) and Carlos Alexander, and the cherished brother of Carlos and Yessenia.

Cristian was truly unforgettable - just like his favorite Nat King Cole song. He was a big guy with an even bigger heart, always ready with warm hugs and sweet kisses for those he loved. Despite being diagnosed as a baby with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (a severe form of epilepsy), Cristian lived with incredible strength, warmth, and kindness.

A student at Turner High School, Cristian touched many lives with his old soul and gentle spirit. He loved Disney and Pixar movies - favorites like Inside Out, Rio, Encanto, Moana, and Coco always filled him with joy. But his all-time favorite was Cars.

Cristian was a son, a brother, a grandson, a cousin, a nephew, a friend, a student...and a light to everyone who knew him. His passing leaves a heartache that no parent should ever have to bear.

This tragedy has also deeply affected his sister, Yessenia (YaYa), who was hospitalized in the PICU at KUMC for severe smoke inhalation. While she continues to fight to get better at, her family has been at her side, helping her heal and grieve at the same time.

In addition to losing Cristian, the family has also lost their home and all of their possessions in the fire. Funds raised will go directly toward:

Any contribution, no matter the size, will bring comfort and relief to Cristian’s family during this unimaginable time.

Thank you for your love, prayers, and support. Please consider donating and sharing this campaign to help honor Cristian’s memory.

Forever unforgettable. Forever loved.