Lilia García Rodríguez, Vice Chancellor of Health Sciences at Universidad de Monterrey, shared on LinkedIn:
“What an extraordinary SIOP Congress 2026!
This year’s SIOP Congress was particularly meaningful to me as I had the privilege of participating in a new role as Vice-Chair of the Young SIOP Network.
Throughout these inspiring days, I had the opportunity to moderate a session, share a panel with remarkable women physicians and leaders, exchange ideas with colleagues from around the world, and continue learning from a global community united by one purpose: improving the lives of children and adolescents with cancer.
And then came the perfect way to close this unforgettable experience: receiving the Young SIOP Network Recognition of Outstanding Leadership, acknowledging my dedication and commitment to advancing pediatric oncology in my region.
I receive this recognition with profound gratitude and humility. It represents almost 10 years of my professional journey as a pediatric oncologist-years filled with patients and families who have taught me the true meaning of courage, colleagues who have become partners and friends, and countless opportunities to advocate for better childhood cancer care.
It also represents the work we have done together in Nuevo León, Mexico, and across Latin America, striving to create better opportunities, strengthen access to care, build stronger systems, and ensure that where a child is born does not determine their chance of surviving cancer.
There is still so much to do. And perhaps that is what makes this recognition even more meaningful: it is not only a celebration of the road traveled, but also a reminder of the responsibility and privilege of continuing forward.
Thank you to Young SIOP, International Society of Paediatric Oncology – SIOP , my mentors, colleagues, teams, patients, families, and everyone who has been part of this journey.
I return home inspired, grateful, and even more committed to pediatric oncology, leadership, advocacy, and the next generation of professionals who will continue transforming childhood cancer care.
The journey continues.”
You can also read ‘Highlights from SIOP 2026‘
