Anyone who knows me knows how much Paisley means to me.

Paisley was rescued and given a second chance by this incredible rescue, and without them she may never have found her way into my life. They gave her the opportunity to be loved, safe and happy, and for that I will always be grateful.

This September, I'm taking on my first ever 5K race to raise money and give something back to the rescue that changed her life — and mine.

When I started my fitness journey at the beginning of this year, I never imagined I'd be signing up for a running event. Since January, I've been working hard to build healthier habits, become stronger, and discover what my body is capable of.

One of the biggest things I've learned is to appreciate my body for what it can do, rather than just how it looks. Which is something Paisley has helped me with too — because a dog doesn't care what you look like; they just care that you're there.

As a woman, I grew up with the message that being small was more important than being strong. This year, I chose to change that narrative and learned the opposite. I've learned strength, resilience and capability, and I cannot wait to put all of that to the test in my first 5K.

For some people, a 5K may seem like a small challenge, but for me it represents months of hard work, consistency and personal growth. Every training session has been a reminder that I am capable of more than I thought, and whenever things have gotten tough, it is Paisley's story that I think of to keep me going.

By supporting this fundraiser, you'll be helping the rescue continue to give dogs like Paisley the second chances they deserve, and people like me the chance to find their best friends.

Thank you for supporting me, supporting Paisley, and supporting a cause that means so much to both of us. 🐾❤️