Hello all. My name is Lauren. I am an animal massage therapist, behavioral therapist for kids with autism, most currently a para educator for RPS schools, and author of the book, Pearl's Big Badge of Courage. I’m raising funds to help bring my children’s book Pearl’s Big Badge of Courage to life.

This story is inspired by my real dog, Pearl, a gentle white Boxer who travels with me as I work with animals across the Midwest. Together we help animals feel better and heal, and along the way, Pearl has shown incredible bravery, kindness, and heart.

Pearl’s Big Badge of Courage is a story for children about resilience, compassion, and the quiet courage animals show every day. My hope is that this book will help kids understand that being brave doesn’t mean you aren’t scared—it means facing something hard with courage.

Publishing a children’s book involves illustration, editing, design, and printing costs, and I’m asking for support from my community to help make this dream possible.

But this project is about more than just publishing a book. For every donation received, one hardcover copy of Pearl’s Big Badge of Courage will be donated to a child fighting cancer once the book is published.

My hope is that Pearl’s story can bring comfort, courage, and a little bit of light to children who are facing some of the toughest battles imaginable.

Every contribution—big or small—helps bring this story to life and helps place a message of courage directly into the hands of children who need it most.

If Pearl’s story touches your heart, I would be incredibly grateful for your support in helping us share it with the world.

Thank you for believing in this dream.

—Lauren Murphy