Jennifer's Birthday Wish: Help Hank Heal!

Anyone who knows Jennifer Odister knows she has a heart of gold—especially when it comes to animals. It doesn’t matter the shape, size, or breed—if they need love, Jennifer is there. That’s exactly what happened one day in her Black Creek neighborhood when she came across a severely injured and malnourished Great Dane/Pitbull mix, wandering alone with no tags and no sign of his past. Most would have looked away, but Jennifer couldn’t.

This sweet boy was covered in wounds, clearly dehydrated, and had been abandoned—left behind like he didn’t matter. But to Jennifer, he did matter. While she waited for the animal shelter to arrive she gave him what was likely his first real meal in days, and began the long journey toward healing. With three dogs already at home, it was a tough decision not to keep him herself—but she knew his best chance at recovery was through McKamey Animal Shelter.

There, he got a fresh start and a new name: Hank. And from that moment on, Jennifer made a promise to be part of his story. Once Hank was healthy, Jennifer spent months tirelessly searching for the perfect forever home—trying friends, neighbors, and clients—until finally, Hank met Lisa Goforth. After just one sleepover, it was clear: Hank had found his person.

Hank and Lisa have been inseparable ever since. But recently, tragedy struck. While playing outside, Hank suffered a devastating ACL injury, and the road to recovery has come with overwhelming veterinary costs—including pre-op care, surgery, and post-op rehab.

Jennifer turns 50 this year, and all she wants is to ease the burden of these expenses for Lisa, who opened her heart and home to Hank. As a beloved member of the Black Creek community and a talented salon owner and stylist at Southside Salon and Spa, Jennifer has spent her life caring for others—now, we have a chance to give back.

Please help Jennifer celebrate her milestone birthday by supporting Hank’s healing journey. Every little bit helps. Let’s rally together and #HelpHankHeal.