In 1997, Patch Pals was launched by Cathy Thompson.  Her daughter Mackenzie had struggled with patching her eye and Cathy created a few patches to make her daughter's patching more enjoyable.  With encouragement from local eye doctors, she started selling her patches.  Cathy applied her B.A. in Psychology and her experience as an elementary school teacher to create products and a website that would appeal to young children.  She knew that if patching was presented as something fun and exciting then children would tolerate patching time a little easier.  Providing free downloadable coloring sheets, interactive games, educational worksheets, reward calendars, and many other items gives patchers activities to do while patching.  Becoming a Patch Pals Club member helps the patcher feel like they are special and unique.  Cathy wanted to attach as many positive feelings and experiences to patching as possible.   
   Patch Pals continues to grow with new products being added every year.  Patch Pals are shipped to children all over the world and hopefully helping the patching process go a little smoother for each child.