Mission

About SebastianStrong Foundation SebastianStrong Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization raising awareness for childhood cancer and funding groundbreaking research that leads to less toxic, more targeted treatment options and cures. Founded in 2017 by Oscar Ortiz in honor of his son, Sebastian Ortiz (2000–2016), and his courageous 14-month battle with rhabdomyosarcoma, the Foundation was built on a simple belief: kids deserve better. Our work focuses on high-impact Discovery Science, funding innovative research and clinical projects that may not otherwise receive support. All research proposals are rigorously reviewed by our Scientific Advisory Board to ensure scientific merit, feasibility, and meaningful impact. To date, SebastianStrong has had an impact of nearly $7 million in pediatric cancer research funding at leading institutions across the United States. While we fund research for tomorrow, we meet families where they are today. Through the My Childhood Cancer Navigator program, we provide one-to-one navigation support to families facing pediatric cancer — helping them overcome non-clinical barriers such as housing instability, insurance challenges, financial strain, educational disruptions, and access to psychosocial resources. By reducing these burdens, we help families stay focused on their child’s care and well-being. Headquartered in Miami with national reach, SebastianStrong advances hope on two fronts: driving discovery for tomorrow and delivering trusted support for families today. To learn more or get involved, visit sebastianstrong.org or follow @SebsStrong (Instagram and X) and @SebastianStrong (Facebook).