Why Patches?
Empowering Children with Pediatric Cancers through the Power of Patches!
“In the beginning people collected and sent me patches to put on my jean jacket and it made me feel encouraged. At first I was sort of scared but the patches made me strong. I wore my jacket to the hospital on treatment days and it reminded me that I was loved. Oh yeah… I also looked pretty cool too.”
— Oliver Burkhardt
Why Patches?
The Truth about the Power of Patches
We all know patches are fun to collect and look cool however there are many potential benefits for those involved with the Oliver Patch Project:
Being part of a community- community support can be a critical part of wellness, especially during and after a traumatic illness.
The patches facilitate rapport and connection between the child and their medical team. These connections can be key in helping children get through challenging and uncomfortable procedures.
Validation- being seen and recognized for their efforts and valor.
Recognition- Achievement badges are a familiar symbol for children (especially for those who play video games or participate in community organizations like scouting). Patches from OPP provide achievement badges for real life experiences.
Warriors may not know how to share their experiences with others or know what to say about their diagnosis, treatment, or recovery but their jacket/tote bag in and of itself is a wonderful conversation starter.
Opportunities for ongoing community engagement such as mentoring, and advocacy.”
Parents and Guardian Involvement
Earning and collecting patches is a family endeavor that has benefits for parents and guardians.
It’s a shared goal for the parent/guardian and child—they’re mutually invested in the process because every patch means one step closer to completing treatment.
It’s a free incentive and reward for the child, which means one less motivator for parents/guardians to think about when there are so many things to think about.
Every patch is a reminder for parents/guardians that the OPP community is there for them and their child. OPP understands the emotional rollercoaster that parents/guardians endure while coaching their child to do something unfamiliar and uncomfortable.
It feels good to give that new patch to a child. It’s a way to say “I see your determination; I see your courage; I am so proud of you.
*Contributed by Bonnie Thomas, LCSW, Counselor, Child Therapist; Author
