Jordan Olivares, a former Division I basketball player and Kern County probation officer, is in the middle of life and death.
Olivares is in critical condition and is admitted to the ICU after she lost mobility from Neck Down, and at one point even required life support.
Doctors diagnosed her with Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a rare neurological disorder in which the immune system attacks the nerves, often causing paralysis.
Before being diagnosed with a life-threatening syndrome, she was always determined and had numerous achievemnets in her playing career.
On the court, she made history at Sacramento State by leading the women’s basketball team to its first-ever Big Sky Conference tournament win over Idaho.
She used her COVID year to continue playing at Cal State Bakersfield while earning her Master’s in Business Administration.
After graduation, she returned to her community as a probation officer, serving others with the same dedication she had shown in the courtroom.
Supports Pour for the Athlete
Friends and family describe her as a fighter, someone who lifts those around her, a quality she now draws on as she faces a long and uncertain recovery.
At this moment, Olivares’ family is seeking help to cover medical and living expenses.
According to GoFundMe, she recently purchased her first home, with the mortgage due December 1, and the financial strain of ICU care, rehabilitation, medical equipment, transportation, and lost wages is heavy.
The campaign organized by Diane Olivares of Bakersfield will allow Jordan to focus entirely on recovery.
Support from the community has poured in immediately. Marlisa Blueford shared, “Praying for Jordan,” while Liane Reyes added, “We will keep Jordan in our prayers.”
Lois Paquin said, “Praying for your beautiful daughter,” and Helina Ochoa wrote, “Keeping Jordan and the family in our prayers.”
Friends highlighted Jordan’s strength: Anita Munoz Pinon called her “a tough cookie” and reassured the family, “She will get through this momma,” while Mariah Marshall said, “I’ve never met a stronger girl. She’s got this.”
Community members also offered hope and encouragement directly to Jordan.
Conan Alvarez said, “You got this, Jordan,” and Allison Bautista shared, “I cannot imagine how hard this must be. Praying she continues to gain strength and makes a full recovery.”
Others prayed for peace and comfort for the family, like Latonya Marie: “Heavenly Father, wrap Your loving arms around Jordan’s family, bring peace and less worry to their hearts and minds as You restore healing and strength into her body. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Messages continued to come from all corners of the community, reflecting the love Jordan has inspired throughout her life.
Savvy Quintana said, “Sending prayers to Jordan and you guys. Love you all so much,” while Rose Park offered, “Prayers for Jordan and her family.”
Will Lualemana wrote, “Prayers up for you Jordan and family,” and Mariah Marshall’s words echoed hope and confidence: “She’s got this.”
Recovery from Guillain-Barré is long and unpredictable, often requiring months of hospitalization, therapy, and rehabilitation, and some patients face lifelong challenges.
Hopefully, the love and support from family and friends will be enough for Olivares in the battle against the Syndrome.
