Mateo fought a long and valiant battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)—a battle he faced with a strength and spirit far beyond his years.
Born on October 12, 2017, in Springfield, Illinois, to loving parents Felix and Shahnoza Garcia, Mateo brought with him a light that warmed every room he entered. From the very beginning, he was a child full of curiosity, laughter, and love. He was a constant source of joy to his family and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Despite the unimaginable challenges he faced, Mateo lived every moment with courage, grace, and an unbreakable will to fight.
Mateo’s journey through illness revealed the depth of his character. He met every doctor’s appointment, treatment, and hospital stay with remarkable bravery. Even in the hardest times, his spirit never wavered. He smiled often, made others laugh, and continued to show compassion and sweetness that touched the hearts of nurses, doctors, teachers, and other children fighting similar battles.
He loved dinosaurs, LEGOs, superheroes, and drawing—his imagination knew no bounds. His favorite superhero was Spider-Man, not just because of the costume or the superpowers, but because Spidey reminded him that true strength comes from helping others. Mateo, in his own way, became a hero to many. His resilience inspired all who followed his journey, and his courage gave hope to other children and families walking a similar path.
To his parents, Felix and Shahnoza, Mateo was the center of their world—a shining star who brought meaning, joy, and unconditional love. Their unwavering support, endless care, and fierce devotion never faltered through even the darkest nights. Mateo’s life was also lovingly shared with his extended family—grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles—each of whom played a special role in his short but beautiful journey.
Mateo’s teachers and classmates at his elementary school remember him as a kind and bright student who made fast friends and always had a hug or high-five to share. His presence in the classroom brought warmth and joy, even during the times when illness kept him from attending as often as he wished.
Though Mateo’s time on earth was short, his impact is immeasurable. He taught us how to be brave in the face of fear, how to find joy in the little things, and how to love without limits. He reminded us all of the fragility of life and the strength of the human spirit.
To everyone who supported the Garcia family throughout Mateo’s battle—whether through prayers, messages, donations, or simple acts of kindness—your compassion brought comfort and strength when it was most needed. The family expresses their deep gratitude to the medical teams who cared for Mateo with dedication and love, especially at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus.
Mateo’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched in just seven short years. We will carry his memory forward with love, honoring the strength he showed and the love he gave.
Rest peacefully, Mateo. Your fight is over, your pain is gone, and your light will shine in our hearts forever. 💙🕊️
“Though he be but little, he was fierce.” – Shakespeare
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