We are overwhelmed with gratitude to share that we reached the original goal needed for Renna’s service dog through 4 Paws for Ability — something we could never have done without this incredible community. Your support has carried us in the most humbling and beautiful ways.

As we’ve walked through this journey, we’ve learned just how many families are also trying to raise the funds needed for their child’s life-changing service dog — families who may not have the community, connections, or support system that we’ve been blessed with. Many of them struggle for years to reach their goal, and some never make it.

Because of that, we’ve increased our fundraising goal to $35,000.

💜 1. To continue preparing for Renna’s future service dog needs.
Any overflow beyond the initial requirement will go into Renna’s savings account to support ongoing and future service dog–related expenses as they arise over the years.

💜 2. To help with Renna’s adaptive needs not covered by insurance.
This includes things like:
• adaptive therapies
• medical and safety equipment
• an adaptive bicycle
• adaptive swim lessons
These all play a significant role in her safety, growth, independence, and daily quality of life.

💜 3. To support other families on their service dog journey.
We also hope to use a portion of future donations to bless other families who are raising funds for their own child’s service dog through 4 Paws for Ability — especially families who may not have the same level of support we’ve been fortunate to receive. The amount and timing will depend on Renna’s needs first, but our desire is to give as we are able and as God leads.

Now that the initial requirement has been met, 4 Paws for Ability will begin the detailed process of identifying and training the perfect dog for Renna. Because every service dog receives highly specialized, individualized training based on the needs of the child they will serve, the matching process can take up to two years.

Once Renna is matched, we will travel to Ohio for a 10-day intensive training program where we will learn how to work as a team with her service dog. Since I do not receive paid time off from my job at the church or the school, your generosity also helps us navigate that time without income — something we are incredibly grateful for.

We’re also thankful to share that Renna’s story has been featured on local news outlets and in several publications, with more coverage on the way. We’ll be adding links to those articles and videos here so you can follow along and see the incredible support surrounding her.

From the bottom of our hearts — thank you. Thank you for giving, sharing, praying, and believing in Renna. This community has carried us in ways we can’t fully express, and we are so excited for the journey ahead.

💜 Thank you for loving Renna and walking alongside us.

💖 Help Make Renna’s Dream Come True

Meet Renna — a bright, beautiful 5-year-old girl with Pitt-Hopkins Syndrome and Autism. Her days are filled with strength, joy, and countless hours of therapy. She absolutely loves people — if you see Renna, there’s a good chance she’s already on her way to chase you down and make you her new friend. She has a big smile, a contagious laugh, and a personality that fills every space she’s in.

🐾 Why a Service Dog?

We’re thrilled to share that our family has officially partnered with 4 Paws for Ability, a nonprofit service dog organization, to receive a life-changing service dog for Renna.

This is more than a companion — it’s an essential part of her care. Renna’s service dog will be professionally trained to meet her unique needs by providing:

• 🐕 Behavior Intervention: Helping keep Renna calm and redirecting during moments of distress.
• 🧍 Tethering: Keeping her safe by alerting and staying close when she wanders.
• 🦮 Mobility Assistance: Supporting her balance and stability as she walks and explores.
• 💬 Communication & Emotional Support: Offering a calming, sensory-friendly presence that encourages speech and connection.

💪 Her Daily Fight

Renna participates in a full schedule of therapies that support her growth and independence. While OT, PT, and Speech are now part of her kindergarten program, she also attends a speech clinic at a local college, receives private music therapy, and participates in equine therapy, which is one of her favorite activities.

💸 What We’re Raising

• $20,000 for the cost of the service dog, training, and placement through 4 Paws for Ability.
• Extra funds will go toward travel expenses related to her therapies and the ongoing care and training costs for her service dog.

🌟 How You Can Help

We’re rallying as a community of love, hope, and action to support Renna. Every donation, every share, and every prayer matters.

✨ Ways to make an impact:

• Donate toward Renna’s service dog fund.
• Share this page with family and friends to help us spread the word.
• Host your own fundraiser on Renna’s behalf — every little bit makes a big difference.
• Follow along for updates as Renna gets closer to meeting her future service dog.

Together, we can do this.
Together, we can help Renna thrive. 💜

Thank you for loving Renna as much as she loves people.

📸 Follow Renna’s journey on Instagram: @rennascorner
🐾 Learn more about 4 Paws for Ability: https://www.4pawsforability.org