By Ruth SOWBY

Over the weekend of June 26-28, the two-year anniversary of Studio Hope Boutique was celebrated at its 817 N. Hollywood Way, its Burbank location. Looky-loos combed the aisles looking for boutique treasures at 20% off, all the while chomping on complimentary cupcakes. 

Studio Hope benefits owner Lori Hartwell’s non-profits Renal Support Network and Paws Fur Hope Pet Rescue. People with renal disease and pets needing rescue receive second chances at life thanks to Hartwell. 

She has had a few second chances of her own. For 15 years, Hartwell has been living with her fourth kidney transplant. She has had 50-plus surgeries and 13 years of dialysis. She uses a walker and cane. Some call her, a “survivor,” an “anomaly.” Hartwell calls herself “a cockroach.”     

“Nothing matches the feeling of being able to use your own life experience to help others,” she said.  

Hartwell is considered a top advocate in the country for kidney disease. She has learned that those with chronic illness can enjoy a happy life by helping others and by feathering one’s own nest. In her free time at home, Hartwell makes jewelry and paints. Some of the jewelry is sold at the boutique. She and her husband of 29 years, Dean, love animals and have four dogs and an African grey parrot.

Hartwell’s profession is sales, which she utilizes to good effect at Studio Hope where she sells her one-of-a-kind vintage, artisan and curated thrift items – 85% of which are donated for a “second chance.”  

She also offers through Zoom free education on navigating health issues, renal disease support groups and future pet adoption in store.    

Upcoming events at the boutique include a Vision Board Workshop, Mahjong Mixers, a Comedy Night and Ladies’ Nights on the third Friday of every month.