Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation (TBCF) has added Dr. Shivani Upadhyay, a pediatric hematologist/oncologist, to its Board of Directors.
“Known affectionately as ‘Dr. Shivani’ by her patients and their families, Dr. Upadhyay brings a deep commitment to TBCF’s mission and firsthand insight into the challenges families face throughout a childhood cancer journey,” TBCF said.
Her appointment marks the first time a pediatric oncologist has served on TBCF’s board of directors, the organization said.
Dr. Upadhyay is board-certified in pediatrics and pediatric hematology/oncology by the American Board of Pediatrics. She serves as medical director of the Grotenhuis Clinic, and is a physician in the Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Department at Cottage Children’s Medical Center.
Previously, she served as an assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, and on the clinical faculty at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where she also served as Pediatric Medical Student Site co-director.
A longtime TBCF volunteer, donor and advisor, Dr. Upadhyay has helped families navigate the challenges of a childhood cancer diagnosis and has championed the organization’s new Pediatric Cancer Support Center near Cottage Children’s Medical Center, TBCF said.
Through its programs and services, TBCF complements medical care by addressing the emotional, financial, educational, and psychosocial needs of the entire family.
“We are eager to bring Dr. Shivani’s expertise to our board, along with her understanding that successful treatment extends beyond medicine to supporting the whole family,” said Brittany Avila Wazny, TBCF’s executive director.
“Having cared for children and families through diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, Dr. Upadhyay understands the challenges that can arise at every stage of the pediatric cancer journey,” TBCF said.
“Her clinical perspective and longstanding relationship with TBCF will help inform board decisions and guide the organization as it continues to strengthen services for families across the region,” TBCF said.
“No family should ever face pediatric cancer alone, in any phase of the journey,” Dr. Upadhyay said. “I have witnessed firsthand the incredible compassion, support and hope that Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation brings to children with cancer and their families on the Central Coast.
“They remind families that even in the most difficult moments, they are surrounded by a community that cares. Every child deserves hope, every family deserves support, and I am incredibly grateful to be part of a foundation that makes such a profound difference in their lives.”
Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation advocates for families in Santa Barbara, Ventura and San Luis Obispo counties who have a child with cancer. TBCF provides financial, educational and emotional support to help families navigate the challenges of a pediatric cancer diagnosis.
Learn more at TeddyBearCancerFoundation.org.