I want to tell everyone about an amazing person that I'd like to thank. She is ten years old, and her name is Kendra Lippincott.

Kendra goes to my school and decided for her tenth birthday party she would sacrifice all gifts for herself. Instead she asked her guests to donate to help my family raise $13,000 for my little sister Sarah to get an autism service dog from an agency called 4 Paws For Ability. The service dog will help my eight year old sister stay safe.

It was a surprise to me that Kendra was doing at her birthday party. I thought it was a regular party. When it came time to open gifts, she turned to me and told me what the party she was doing. I ended up opening gifts instead of Kendra. She helped our family raise almost $250. I actually was so shocked and overwhelmed that I about cried in front of a bunch of girls!

There are no words except for stunning. What ten year old girl would give up her own birthday presents to help someone? Kendra is the most kind and generous person I know. The world is a better place because of her. She changed my life and makes me want to give to others like she did for me and my family. I want to make others feel the way she made me feel.

Thank you Kendra and all of those that have helped my sister get her autism service dog. Because of you, we have reached our goal of $13,000. My sister Sarah will be getting her service dog this September, just in time for her ninth birthday. We are very thankful to have such amazing friends like Kendra.

Ryan Polk
4th grader from Rushwood Elementary