Less than one year ago I was returning home in a wheelchair from a months-long hospital stay after being diagnosed with an unknown virus that triggered a severe autoimmune disorder and stole my ability to walk. Throughout my time in the hospital, a local bookstore in my community who learned about my situation began to send me books specifically tailored to my interests. Even at my lowest points, I found that those books gave my mind a way to travel beyond the hospital and persevere until a time when my body could as well. That is what inspired me to start the Brave Smiles, Big Hope Project.

By making curated books available to pediatric patients, the Brave Smiles, Big Hope Project is dedicated to bringing comfort, encouragement, and hope to children and teenagers facing chronic illnesses, rare diseases, and significant medical challenges. Through community-driven service, donation initiatives, and awareness efforts, the Brave Smiles, Big Hope Project works to build partnerships with schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations to create a network of support that surrounds children and their families with compassion and care.

Beyond curated book donations, I am committed to fostering empathy and understanding concerning rare pediatric illnesses within our communities. By sharing my story, and encouraging other pediatric patients to be brave enough to share theirs, I believe we can educate others about the realities of chronic and rare illnesses, inspire kindness, and encourage meaningful acts of service.

At the heart of Brave Smiles, Big Hope Project we believe no child should ever feel alone in their journey.

Even the smallest act of kindness can help those in need maintain a brave smile until the time comes when that brave smile can grow into big hope.