How Cancer Inspired a Game-Changing Medical Device with Kate Dilligan

When Kate Dilligan found a lump in her breast in a friend’s shower, she had no idea it would lead to a life-altering diagnosis—and a career-defining mission. As a breast cancer patient, she realized how critical it was to keep her identity, her privacy, and her dignity throughout treatment. That experience led her to launch Cooler Heads, the company behind Amma™—an innovative FDA-cleared scalp cooling device that helps chemotherapy patients reduce hair loss. Kate shares how vulnerability, loss, and leadership all shaped her mission. Now among the 2% of solo female founders to raise over $10M, Kate’s story is equal parts grit and grace. Tune in as we explore her boldest moves and how she continues to challenge the status quo in healthcare innovation. Must-Hear Insights and Key MomentsKate’s career leap from political fundraising to MedTech entrepreneurshipHer personal battle with aggressive breast cancer and how it sparked a businessThe emotional and physical toll of chemotherapy—and how she fought for controlThe birth of Cooler Heads and why privacy during treatment mattersRaising $20M+ in venture capital as a solo female founderThe mission behind Amma™ and its role in patient dignityWhy mentorship shaped every key decision in Kate’s journeyThe power of showing up even when you don’t have all the answersWords of Wisdom: Standout Quotes from This Episode“People were telling me I was crazy, and I did it anyway.” - Kate Dilligan“I was not going to let cancer define me—I was going to define what came next.” - Kate Dilligan“You don’t have to know everything to begin, you just have to start.” - Courtney Turich“Even in our darkest chapters, we can choose how the next page is written.” - Courtney Turich“It takes incredible strength to ask for help, and even more to rebuild.” - Kate DilliganAbout KateKate Dilligan is the Founder & CEO of Cooler Heads Care, a company dedicated to providing innovative scalp cooling solutions for chemotherapy patients. As a cancer survivor, she advocates for patient privacy and identity preservation during treatment. Her posts highlight significant milestones in her company, including partnerships with health systems and recognition in the healthcare community. Dilligan emphasizes the importance of patient support and the transformative impact of her products on the lives of those undergoing cancer treatment.Follow Kate DilliganLinkedInInstagramWebsiteStay Connected with Courtney Turich: WebsiteInstagramLinkedinFacebookA Team Dklutr Production