Honor Pat, help end sexual violence

On October 18, 2018, my beloved brother Patricio "Pat" Salazar gave his life to save a woman from a vicious sexual assault. He did not know the woman who was being raped, he saw something bad happening and took action. The woman’s assailant then turned on my brother, beating him so brutally that he never regained consciousness. Despite the brave efforts of a witness at the scene and the quick actions of first responders, Pat died later that evening from the injuries he sustained.

My brother was very smart, funny, unassuming, and humble about his gifts and talents. He LOVED sports and hiking and had a passion for nature and animals. He always longed for his native Bolivia and his Andean mountains.

He was one of the most kind-hearted and genuine people I have ever met. And, as he showed by his final act of great courage, he was a man of integrity and character, who believed in doing the right thing no matter what the cost. My family and I are at a loss to describe the depth of pain we are feeling. He has left us—and this world—far too soon, because we—and the world—really need heroes like him.  

To honor Pat’s memory and his ultimate sacrifice, we are launching this GoFundMe campaign to support victims of sexual violence and to help put an end to all forms of gender-based violence! Pat would have approved.

ALL the funds raised will be donated to two certified organizations: one in Virginia and one in La Paz, Bolivia.

My family, like millions of others around the world affected by sexual violence, is forever altered. Gender-based violence must end! Please help us build this tribute to Pat’s kindness and courage, to ensure that his death will not have been in vain. It is the least we can do to honor our hero. 

Every donation, however small, will make a difference.

Thank you all for your kindness.