EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — For more than a decade, Brave Barbie has given children facing cancer and other illnesses a way to see themselves reflected in play. Now, for the first time, Brave Ken is joining the journey — bringing his own empowering look and a new set of accessories designed to help all kids express themselves.
The updated dolls were created with children’s comfort and self-expression in mind. Brave Ken debuts with two outfits, a removable rooted wig that can be styled or taken off, and the same gentle, kind-faced design as Brave Barbie. Both dolls come in two skin tones and include five mix-and-match accessories — a wig, a hat, a headband, headphones and a customizable sticker pack — giving kids options that reflect their style while navigating hair loss caused by cancer treatment or autoimmune disease.
Mattel Inc. unveiled the new dolls Sept. 17 as part of its ongoing Brave Barbie program, timed with Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The line was created in 2013 to comfort children who lose their hair during treatment, and it remains the only toy series in the world distributed through nonprofit partners. More than 120,000 dolls have already reached families around the globe.
This year marks a milestone. Mattel is expanding the program worldwide, sending 10,000 dolls through a network of partners including Ronald McDonald House Charities, Starlight Children’s Foundation, CureSearch for Children’s Cancer, Koala Kids, Save the Children, Fundación Teletón and others.
Nancy Molenda, Mattel’s vice president of global corporate events and philanthropy, said the goal has always been simple: to put a symbol of strength in the hands of children during their toughest battles. Families and health care workers continue to share stories of how Brave Barbie dolls help restore confidence and bring light into hospital rooms and clinics.
“Being part of the Brave Ken development was deeply personal as a childhood cancer survivor,” said Chase Carter, director of community engagement at CureSearch. “It was important to me that Brave Ken carry the same message that Brave Barbie has given kids for years, that they are seen, valued and strong even in their toughest battles. These dolls are far more than toys, they are symbols of courage and companions in the fight.”
For families in Southern Maryland and beyond, stories like this resonate deeply. Many in the community have experienced the challenges of childhood illness, and Mattel’s program shows how something as simple as a toy can bring comfort and connection.
Ways For Parents To Find Support In Southern Maryland
Facing a child’s cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but families in Southern Maryland have help close to home — along with national programs that offer guidance and hope.
- UM Charles Regional Medical Center: Offers local education and support programs for patients and families, plus a toll-free referral line to connect residents with area cancer support groups. Learn more here.
- CalvertHealth Cancer Support Groups: General cancer groups meet the first Thursday of every month from 5–6 p.m. Call 410-414-4516 for more information.
- American Cancer Society: Find cancer support groups and caregiver resources near you through the American Cancer Society website.
- Hopeful Hearts: Parents Supporting Parents: Free, one-on-one peer mentorship for parents and guardians of pediatric cancer patients, pairing you with someone who’s been there. Learn more and request a Hopeful Hearts mentor here.
What began as a heartfelt project has grown into a global effort to spread courage through the healing power of play. With the addition of Brave Ken, Mattel is reinforcing its message: bravery comes in many forms, and no child should face their journey without hope, comfort and representation.
See the official Mattel press release to learn more.
Learn more about one Southern Maryland mom who’s giving back by mentoring cancer caregivers.
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