Meet Kelly & Kelly
Sunny P.A.T.H.H. was founded on a shared belief in the healing power of connection—between people, animals, and nature. Led by Kelly Yurkanin and Kelly Blakey, our organization brings together decades of experience in healthcare, social work, and animal-assisted therapy to create meaningful, accessible wellness experiences. Together, they blend clinical expertise, compassion, and lived experience to guide Sunny P.A.T.H.H.’s mission of fostering healing, growth, and hope through intentional human-animal interactions.
Kelly Yurkanin, Founder & Director
With over 25 years in nursing, I've dedicated my life to improving well-being. My journey transformed when I discovered the impact animals have on health and happiness. For five years, my late Golden Retriever Sunny and I served as a comfort dog team in Fort Wayne. Sunny, dearly loved by many, inspired the name Sunny P.A.T.H.H. Certified in Animal Assisted Therapy, I founded Sunny P.A.T.H.H. to make these therapies accessible, recognizing the powerful synergy between animals and people in healing and happiness.
Kelly Blakey MSW LSW, Co-Director
With over 20 years of experience as a dedicated social worker, I've impacted lives through therapy, life coaching, and mental health support. Specializing in animal-assisted therapy, I've witnessed the incredible benefits our furry companions bring to mental health. My passion for animals drives me to create meaningful connections that foster healing and growth.