Life & Work with Jamie Escoto of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamie Escoto

Jamie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
As a young Filipina-American raised in Chicago, I always felt the weight of my father’s expectations. A physician who immigrated from the Philippines, he was my hero, constantly pushing me to achieve my dreams. His unwavering support helped me build a successful career in technology.

My life took a tragic turn when my father was diagnosed with lung cancer, and he passed away 3 1/2 months after his diagnosis. Witnessing his suffering was heartbreaking.

Nine months after he died, I gave birth to my first child. At that moment, I realized I had to change the narrative. I couldn’t let my father’s story end in sorrow. I wanted to create a legacy of hope, courage, and action.

That’s when I discovered the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN). Through ACS CAN, I’ve found a powerful platform to advocate for cancer legislation that supports patients and their families. By volunteering alongside thousands of dedicated individuals across the country, I’ve used my voice to make a difference at the local, state, and federal levels.

This year, I’m honored to serve as California’s State Lead Ambassador, leading a team of approximately 300 volunteers. Together, we work tirelessly to ensure that everyone has access to the care and support they need to fight cancer. I’m particularly proud to have played a pivotal role in helping pass Proposition 31, landmark legislation that bans the sale of flavored tobacco products in California. As a former smoker who became addicted to menthol and clove cigarettes, I understand firsthand the dangers of these products and the importance of protecting our youth from them.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My journey from Chicago to Los Angeles was quite rocky. I moved here in March of 2002, after the burst of the dot-com bubble, which made it difficult to find a stable job. Finding my “people” was also tough; I missed the Midwest charm, authenticity, and strong sense of community. I yearned for the spontaneity of Chicago life, where casual conversations with strangers could turn into deep connections and friends would drop by unannounced to drag you out of bed for brunch. It took several years before I was able to comfortably call LA home, and there were times when I felt like giving up.

Eventually, I discovered all the hidden gems LA has to offer. While I missed the “small-town feel in a big city” that I was accustomed to in Chicago, I decided to embrace the sprawling, spread-out nature of LA. I discovered the beauty of hiking trails like Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon, and the Backbone Trail, and took advantage of quick weekend getaways to places like Ojai, Big Bear, and Red Rock Canyon. I built a career in media & entertainment, made lifelong friends, met the love of my life, and created a family and home here.

Today, as I navigate the challenges of balancing a full-time job, two young children, and my volunteer commitments with ACS CAN, I’m reminded of the resilience I’ve developed throughout my journey. At times, it feels overwhelming, but my family and my community of ACS CAN volunteers and staff have been a source of strength and support.

My journey has taught me the importance of resilience, the power of community, and the ability to find purpose even in the darkest of times. Inspired by my father’s courage and determination, an immigrant who left the Philippines to build a family and career in a different country, I’m driven to continue my journey as a testament to the human spirit’s incredible capacity for healing, renewal, and effecting positive change in the world.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m known for my ability to bring people together and inspire change, and I’m always looking for ways to connect people with different perspectives, background, and expertise.

Throughout my career, I’ve specialized in technology, particularly in media and entertainment. I began my career as a software developer at a startup in Chicago and eventually transitioned into management roles at major media companies like Disney, NBC Universal, and Sony Pictures. I’ve led teams responsible for building consumer-facing streaming products, designing innovative technologies and workflows, and creating backend systems to support internal business operations.

One of my proudest accomplishments is my ability to prioritize my values and family over career advancement. I’ve made the difficult decision to leave companies that didn’t align with my values or provide the flexibility I needed to be present for my family. This has allowed me to pursue passion projects like my work with ACS CAN, where I can make a meaningful impact on my community.

What makes you happy?
My greatest source of happiness is my family. There’s nothing quite like coming home to the joyful screams of my children, delighted to see me. Our “Life Lessons with Mommy” commute ritual, where we discuss any topic under the sun, has become a cherished part of our daily routine. Time goes by so quickly, and I savor every moment, even amidst the chaos of family dinners, hectic schedules, and meltdowns.

Another source of happiness for me is my work with ACS CAN. Being able to use my voice collectively with thousands of volunteers across the country to make a difference in the fight against cancer is incredibly rewarding. Knowing that our efforts are contributing to a brighter future for cancer patients and their families fills me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. It also allows me to honor my father’s memory by carrying on his legacy of fighting for a better world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.fightcancer.org/states/california
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@forpapajimmy

Image Credits
Family Photo by Zsuzsi Steiner
Other Photos by ACS CAN volunteers