When longtime Hilliard resident, Mindy Atwood, watched her own children battle terminal illnesses, she didn’t just witness the emotional turmoil, she lived it. From that deeply personal experience, Patches of Light was born - a nonprofit dedicated to easing the financial burdens that weigh heavily on families with children diagnosed with a critical or terminal illness.

Before founding Patches of Light, Mindy was, and remains, a devoted mother to four children (one of whom passed in 2020) and a loving grandmother to seven, including one angel grandchild. Her family’s journey with two critically ill children and the loss of a grandson due to Trisomy inspired the organization’s mission. Patches of Light supports families nationwide by covering nonmedical expenses that might prevent them from being with their child during treatment and recovery.

Mindy describes herself as the “Jack-of-all-trades” CEO and President, dedicating an average of 30 to 50 volunteer hours per week. She leads fundraising, grant writing, and speaking engagements, in addition to managing bills and collaborating with hospitals and social workers. She also works closely with a board of directors, who actively support the mission.

The nonprofit’s greatest need is financial support, which helps cover bills and provide grocery and gas cards, among other essential assistance for families. One way they meet this need is through annual fundraisers such as the Pumpkin Patch at the Hilliard Fall Festival, the “Believe in the Light, Be the Light” gala, Superhero Cape sales during the Hilliard Hollyfest, a Tea Party, and their participation in the HMS Holiday Festival, which they are celebrating 25 years of being part of this year.

It’s no surprise that Mindy considers her work with Patches of Light one of her greatest blessings. While some may see the many hours she volunteers with little monetary reward, Mindy feels deeply rewarded every time a family can afford groceries, travel to the hospital, provide school supplies for their child, or meet other essential needs. For her, the impact far outweighs the effort, and she is profoundly grateful to have transformed her own challenges into a source of hope and help for others.

Now, she invites anyone interested in making a difference to join the mission. Those who want to get involved can visit patchesoflight.org to fill out a volunteer form, attend an event to make personal connections, or simply stop by their office.