Who is Pearl from The Contender and what is their importance?

Pearl is Alfred’s aunt and his mother’s sister. Alfred has lived with Aunt Pearl since his mother's death. A widow, Aunt Pearl loves Alfred as if he were her own son. She is proud of his work at Epsteins’ Grocery, but she worries about him constantly. When Alfred tells her he is training to be a boxer, she disapproves but doesn’t try to stop him. Aunt Pearl is described as a caring, compassionate woman, who is a positive influence in Alfred’s life.