Hiking has always been one of my greatest passions.
For years, I set a goal to hike all 48 of New Hampshire’s 4,000-foot peaks. After every summit, I would come home and tell my daughter, Kenni, all about it — the smell of pine in the air, the challenge of the climb, the rocky stretches of trail, and the rush of standing at the top and taking in the view.
But every summit felt bittersweet.
My daughter Kenni was born with Rett Syndrome and for most of her life, hiking together simply wasn’t possible. But I always dreamed that one day Kenni could experience the journey with me — not just hear about it afterward.
With the help of a community organization we received a Huckleberry Cascade Cart and my dream could finally be a reality.
With the support of my husband Kevin, my sister Cherie, and the Cascade Cart we set out to hike Mt. Willard together. From the very first step, it felt different. This time, she was right there with me. She felt every rock we clambered over. She experienced the fresh scent of pine, the wind on her face, and the sun gleaming through the leaves.
We climbed as a family.
As we neared the summit, fellow hikers offered encouragement and cheers. I was so grateful to be behind the camera when we reached the top, because I couldn’t hold back my tears. Seeing Kenni’s face as she took in the view is something I will never forget.
Reaching that summit together was a rush we finally shared. A moment that the demon, Rett Syndrome, was not able to steal from her.
I am so proud of us.
For the first time, the summit wasn’t something I described later — it was something we experienced side by side. And that changed everything.
With gratitude,
Renee, Kenni, and our whole family
