DNA extracted from Penny’s bones will be sequenced out by a number of different labs, according to Connelly, hopefully resulting in a genetic profile within the next couple of months that could lead to her finally being identified via genetic genealogy, a process by which DNA can be compared to that of relatives of known missing persons, as well as against profiles submitted to genealogy websites like MyHeritage and Ancestry.com.
But, that process costs money.
“We basically put a cry out to the public saying, ‘We need help,’” Connelly said. About $1,700 of the Penny Doe (G0FvndM3) campaign’s $5,500 goal has been raised as of Sunday, May 17.