Raising Hope Through the Hardest Days: A Rare Diagnosis, Resilience, and a Service Dog

What happens when motherhood doesn’t look the way you imagined...but love, grit, and hope lead the way anyway? In this powerful episode of the Moms Like Me podcast, host Jordan Arogeti sits down with Brenda Marra, a mom whose life was transformed when her daughter Rena was diagnosed with the rare genetic condition Pitt Hopkins Syndrome. Brenda shares her deeply honest journey through delayed milestones, uncertainty, grief, and ultimately, profound resilience. From Rena’s first independent steps at four and a half years old, to building community through other moms, Instagram, and disability advocacy groups, Brenda offers encouragement to parents navigating unfamiliar and challenging paths. She opens up about comparison, inclusion, and the courage it takes to show up in public spaces when your child’s needs are different. The conversation also explores Brenda’s mission to bring more joy, safety, and independence into Rena’s life—including their inspiring journey to raise funds for a specially trained service dog through Four Paws for Ability. Along the way, Brenda introduces Rena’s Corner, her growing platform dedicated to sharing adaptive resources, partnerships, and hope with other families. This episode is a reminder that progress doesn’t always look typical—and that community, creativity, and compassion can change everything. ✨ In this episode, you’ll hear about: • Life with Pitt Hopkins Syndrome • Finding support beyond Google searches • Navigating comparison and public spaces as a mom • The emotional impact of developmental milestones • Why service dogs can be life-changing for children with disabilities • Building community through Rena’s Corner Whether you’re parenting a child with a disability, supporting someone who is, or simply looking for a story grounded in perseverance and love—this episode offers perspective, encouragement, and hope. https://www.instagram.com/rennascorner/ https://www.supportnow.org/renna-marra