Suggestions
Kate Dilligan
Founder & CEO of Cooler Heads Care
Kate Dilligan is the CEO and Founder of Cooler Heads Care, a company she established in 2018 to address the challenges faced by cancer patients, particularly concerning hair loss during chemotherapy. Her motivation stemmed from her personal experience as a breast cancer survivor, where she encountered the significant emotional and physical toll of treatment side effects, including hair loss. After spending $8,000 on traditional cold cap therapy, she recognized the need for a more accessible and effective solution for patients.15
Background and Career
Before founding Cooler Heads, Dilligan had a successful career in technology and politics. She was an executive at KnuEdge, a tech company she helped establish after earning her MBA from Stanford University. During her tenure there, she played a crucial role in growing the company to over 100 employees and securing more than $130 million in funding from investors.13 Additionally, she has a background in political fundraising, having served as a finance director for various Democratic congressional campaigns.17
Cooler Heads Care
Cooler Heads aims to protect the dignity and identity of cancer patients by providing innovative scalp cooling solutions. Their flagship product, Amma, is the first portable FDA-cleared scalp cooling unit that allows patients to manage hair loss during treatment effectively. The device is designed to be user-friendly and can be administered in various settings, enhancing patient autonomy and comfort.56 Under Dilligan's leadership, Cooler Heads has garnered attention for its mission and has been recognized in various competitions, including being a finalist in the MedTech Innovator competition.34
Personal Philosophy
Dilligan emphasizes the importance of addressing not just the medical needs of cancer patients but also their emotional well-being. She believes that maintaining one's identity during treatment is crucial for mental health and overall recovery.26 Her journey from patient to entrepreneur reflects her commitment to improving the lives of others facing similar challenges.

