PATO CARES is a 501( c) (3) with several objectives. Founded by The Olivo Family, we understand firsthand the mixed feelings experienced during a diagnosis and treatment process. Our lives were changed on May 24, 2024, when our 14-year-old son, Patricio, was diagnosed with leukemia. It’s unimaginable to go through such a situation, especially when your child is entering their teenage years and should be concerned about trivial matters like tennis shoes or hairstyles. We took him to a routine doctor’s visit for minor back pain and noticeable fatigue. Initially, the doctor suggested it was a growth-related symptom. However, when the fatigue became excessive, we decided to follow up and get blood work done. The next day, we received a call from his primary care physician (PCP) to take him to the emergency room due to CBC results. The PCP mentioned that it could either be Epstein-Barr or leukemia. At the emergency room, two doctors delivered the news that it was indeed leukemia. Our bodies were shocked by the words, but after the initial shock wore off, we switched to faith, optimism, and determination.

WE UNDERSTAND firsthand what it feels like to be in this situation. Pato Cares was created to help families cope with the initial shock of the diagnosis. We offer a confidential messaging system that allows questions to be answered as accurately as possible. After being in and out of the hospital due to complications of the treatment, we noticed that some establishments could be more family-friendly to ease psychological obstacles.