In a world where childhood cancer continues to devastate families, It was inspiring to meet a remarkable woman ready to change the narrative—Alejandra Mendez, Vice President , and leading the communications efforts of Childhood Cancer International (CCI). Her passion for early detection and education has sparked a conversation about how working together with Alejandra, CCI and the team at KTG could come together to create a collaborative community that could transform childhood cancer outcomes globally.
Alejandra Mendez’s personal connection to childhood cancer runs deep. Her son, Pablo, was diagnosed with clear cell sarcoma at the tender age of two. Despite multiple relapses, Pablo’s strength inspired Alejandra to dedicate her life to helping other families facing the unimaginable. Today, Alejandra is not only the mother of a childhood cancer survivor but also a powerful voice in the global childhood cancer community.
Now a board member of Fundación Nuestros Hijos (FNH) in Chile and a key figure at CCI, Alejandra works tirelessly to improve childhood cancer outcomes. Her work emphasizes the importance of psycho-social services for children and families—particularly in developing countries where access to mental health care and palliative care can be scarce. For Alejandra, it’s about more than just medical treatment; it’s about caring for the whole child and their family.
Among other things, CCI is focused on educating parents, teachers, and communities about the early warning signs of childhood cancers. This mission aligns perfectly with KTG’s goal of raising awareness about The Glow—an early sign of retinoblastoma and other vision-threatening conditions. Megan Webber and Alejandra instantly connected over their shared belief that education can save lives, especially when it comes to early detection.
During their meeting, Alejandra expressed her excitement about the possibilities of CCI collaborating with KTG. She sees tremendous potential for KTG to contribute to CCI’s educational initiatives, especially in rural areas where awareness is lacking. “We can help support others in doing what they do better,” Alejandra said. Both women hope to empower communities with the knowledge they need to catch childhood cancer early, when the chance of survival is highest.
As Communications Director for CCI, Alejandra manages relationships with over 200 organizations worldwide, sharing knowledge and tools that help grassroots groups make a real impact. From online courses on platforms like Coursera to global crowdfunding opportunities, CCI empowers local organizations to grow and thrive.
For Megan, the connection with Alejandra is particularly meaningful as KTG prepares for a major campaign in Chile in 2025. Fundación Nuestros Hijos (FNH), where Alejandra serves on the board, supports 85% of children diagnosed with retinoblastoma in Chile, making the country a critical hub for KTG’s mission. Alejandra’s work with FNH and her close partnership with figures like Dr. Marcela Zubieta will help pave the way for KTG’s outreach in the region.
Megan and Alejandra are hoping to meet in person this week at the CCI/SIOP International Conference in Hawaii, where Alejandra will be speaking about grief alongside Dr. McNeil, from St. Jude Hospital, nurses, bereaved parents and other parents of childhood cancer survivors. Their meeting marks the beginning of a partnership that holds great promise for both organizations. By combining CCI’s vast network and psycho-social expertise with KTG’s focus on early detection, the two hope to drive real change for children facing cancer.
As Alejandra says, “We share, we care.” This motto perfectly encapsulates the spirit of collaboration between CCI and KTG—working together to ensure that every child, no matter where they live, has a fighting chance.
