Some stories stay with you forever.

This spring, we were humbled to receive an email from a kindergarten teacher in Nebraska, whose words struck a chord deep in our hearts.

“One of my former students, Jimmy Moran, lost his battle to DIPG, a rare and aggressive form of pediatric brain cancer. He was just 10 years old. As a teacher, you consider your students your own kids. I want nothing more than to help find a cure.”

In memory of Jimmy, who became an angel on September 2, 2022, Kelli and his family organized an annual Carnival for the Cure. All funds raised go to The Cure Starts Now, a nonprofit leading the charge in the fight against pediatric brain cancer and DIPG.

As part of this beautiful event, Kelli asked if we could donate pencils to be used as prizes for the children attending. Not just any pencils—she requested they be printed with a message Jimmy once wrote in his notebook while undergoing treatment at the Mayo Clinic:

“Be Happy for No Reason.”

That phrase—now the rally cry for Jimmy’s legacy—not only reminded us why we started our 4PENS 4KIDS initiative to support children, education, and causes that bring light where there is darkness, but also inspired us to donate our Hero Pencils printed with Jimmy’s uplifting motto.

At 4PENS, we talk a lot about our rally cry: Ink Your Impact. This was one of those moments where ink became more than branding—it became a way to honor a life, memory, and hope.

We’re honored to play even a small part in helping Jimmy’s message live on. If you’d like to learn more about Jimmy “The Great” and support the fight to end DIPG, visit Jimmy's Chapter at The Cure Starts Now.

To Jimmy. To joy without condition. And to a future where no child has to face this battle—we’re with you.