In 2002 Retinoblastoma International recognized the need to improve the quality of treatment in Mexico and upgrade the equipment used to treat retinoblastoma in that country. Several initiatives were undertaken. The first was to bring a doctor to Los Angeles for additional training in the treatment of retinoblastoma and how to use modern equipment that RBI intends to purchase for the physician in Mexico. RBI funded a three month internship for Dr. Marco Antonio Ramirez-Ortiz to train with Dr. Linn Murphree at The Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles. The training was completed in the fall of 2002.

In late 2002 Retinoblastoma International, with a generous donation by Cassandra Kwoh, was able to purchase a Photo Coagulation Laser for The Hospitale Infantile de Mexico (Federico Gomez – Department of Ophthalmology). This laser enables a physician to treat retinoblastoma tumors using a concentrated beam of heat while avoiding any damage to surrounding tissue and nerves.

Retinoblastoma International helped raise money to purchase a Ret Cam to go to the same hospital in Mexico. A Ret Cam is a sophisticated camera that allows a physician to photograph the inside of the eye and review the image on computer to diagnose the disease and pinpoint the areas that require treatment. In addition, the photos can be saved electronically and forwarded via email to other physicians for second opinions. In 2003, Mexico joined in on this effort and helped raise sufficient funds to purchase this camera.

* At this time, Retinoblastoma International does not accept unsolicited grant requests.