About CKMC
Founded in 2011, cancer kiss my cooley is a Texas based 501 (c)3 charitable organization, CKMC was created in memory of Carter Kettner. At age 5, he was diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer. The organization was named after a phrase that Carter often said. He called his backside his “cooley,” which is Italian slang for “rear end.” He would sing, “cancer kiss my cooley!”, while pointing to his backside. After Carter earned his angel wings, the phrase took on a new meaning. We tell cancer to “KISS IT!” Live your lives with cancer; but fight, make memories and keep HOPE. CKMC is led and operated by unpaid
board of Directors.
Our Mission
Our founding mission is to create special moments and lasting memories for families living with pediatric brain tumors through our KISS of HOPE® program. In 2018 we expanded our mission to include funding of brain cancer clinical research trials.
Our KISS of HOPE program
A KISS of HOPE®from cancer kiss my cooley® is something very special. It is a personal experience, customized for each child referred to us. It can be delivered in many ways such as a family trip, medical bill assistance, meeting their favorite idol or superhero, or other means to support the child’s emotional and physical wellness.