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Danielle Finmark (Cancer Patient) Invitation to Encino Home

Date range assessed by the fact that they watched ”Short Circuit”, which was released on May 9, 1986; it was most likely watched shortly after its release in theaters.

“Los Angeles Times” magazine (October 11, 1987)

Danielle Finmark, a 12-year-old who attends Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times, a Southern California camp for children undergoing cancer treatment, doesn't remember specific details of the conversation she had with Jackson when she visited his home in 1986. "It was just normal conversation," she says. "He called the day before to ask what I'd like for lunch. We had spaghetti and pizza and garlic bread and salad, and he had that too." She toured the house, which is described by another visitor as being in good taste despite its Louis XV style and the extravagances of its trophy room, screening room, private zoo, Disney memorabilia and much-publicized candy store. The latter feature was what most impressed Finmark, who watched the movie "Short Circuit" with Jackson and was introduced to his animals.

"I don't like it when other kids say he's weird and call him names or I read those stories about him," the outspoken child says. "That's his life and his choice, and he should be allowed to do with it as he wants."