June 24th is a special day dedicated to spreading love and support to children and teens facing health challenges nationwide. National Patch Day was created by the Oliver Patch Project, and encourages everyone to send a heartfelt token of kindness—a unique patch—to empower young warriors during their health battles and anytime they need some love and support.
The Oliver Patch Project (OPP) was founded by Trisha Brookbank, vice president of Studio IDC, and her husband, Brian Burkhardt. The project began with a simple, yet powerful idea inspired by their son Oliver’s journey after being diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. They witnessed firsthand how small gestures of love, in the form of patches, could uplift and inspire courage. Oliver’s jacket adorned with these patches symbolized strength, reminding him of the community rooting for his recovery.
Since its inception, OPP has sent over 40,000 patches to children and teens in 256 hospitals across all 50 states. This initiative promotes healing and fosters a sense of connection and resilience among young patients and their families.
“National Patch Day is more than an annual celebration; it’s a 365-day initiative to empower children with cancer to find their inner warriors,” says Brian Burkhardt, co-founder and executive director of OPP. “We’ve been fortunate to receive overwhelming support from community members and sponsors, including Studio IDC. Your encouragement has been invaluable in making this initiative a success.”
We invite each of you to participate in National Patch Day. Your message of love and support can make a difference in the lives of children facing physical or mental health challenges. To learn more and join the movement, visit OliverPatchProject.org or email hello@oliverpatchproject.org.
Together, we stitch love, hope, and resilience—one patch at a time!