Amanda Pevey
Elmore Autauga News
On March 21, families around the world marked World Down Syndrome Day, a time to celebrate individuals with Down Syndrome and raise awareness about inclusion and support. In Prattville, one local family is living that mission every day as they help their young son grow, learn, and thrive.
The Patiño Cadena family, who traveled to Prattville through military service, has built a life centered on opportunity and resilience. Bolívar Patiño and his wife, Maria Alejandra Cadena, from Panama and Bolivia, are raising their two sons, Bolívar Jr., affectionately known as Boli, and Leonardo.
Boli, 5, is a student at Prattville Kindergarten School, where his parents say he has flourished. Born April 13, 2020, Boli was diagnosed with Down Syndrome at birth, a moment that reshaped the family’s journey.
Like many families navigating a diagnosis during the COVID-19 pandemic, the family faced early challenges. With agencies and institutions closed, they turned to private therapists who came to their home, helping them learn how to best support their son’s development.
Through patience and persistence, Boli has made steady progress.
“I think PKS has been amazing,” Patiño said. “The facility and the teachers are amazing, and he loves school a lot. When we moved to Prattville, Boli did not know anything about English, and now he can understand many things very well.”
While Boli continues to work on his speech in both Spanish and English, his parents say he communicates effectively and is improving every day. They remain committed to helping him find his voice and build confidence.
Part of that journey includes therapy beyond the classroom. The family regularly participates in the Montgomery Area Nontraditional Equestrians, also known as MANE, where Boli takes part in therapeutic horseback riding. The experience supports his sensory, physical, and emotional development, and it is something he genuinely enjoys.
Outside of therapy and school, the family has embraced life in Prattville. From local parks to parades and seasonal events like Mardi Gras celebrations, they have found a welcoming community that continues to support their journey.
At the heart of it all is a simple goal shared by Boli’s parents.
“Like any parent, we want him to reach his full potential,” Patiño said. “We are trying to still discover what he is more interested in to help him in every aspect. We see Boli living like a regular person, developing as any other person would.”
As families reflect on World Down Syndrome Day, the Patiño Cadena family’s story serves as a reminder that with support, opportunity, and community, every child can grow, connect, and shine in their own way.
