Meet Pediatrician Marilyn Mendoza, MD, MPH

What drives someone to spend a life in medicine? In this Q&A series, a group of leading local physicians share the moments that set them on their path, the breakthroughs shaping their fields, and the realities behind the work. Their answers are candid, occasionally surprising, and grounded in experience. Together, they offer a clear-eyed look at the people delivering care in our community and what continues to motivate them every day.

Q. What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine, and how did you select your particular specialty?

A. From as early as I can remember, I wanted to become a pediatrician. At four years old, I was deeply inspired by my own Sansum Pediatrician, Dr. Ernest Kolendrianos. I admired the way he spoke directly to me with warmth and patience, and how his gentle approach made each visit feel safe and even enjoyable. Even at that young age, I sensed the profound impact a physician could have on a child’s experience of healthcare.

My connection to medicine deepened as I grew older. Because of family health challenges, I spent significant time navigating the healthcare system, and by the age of eight I was translating between English and Spanish for family members during medical appointments. Acting as a bridge in those moments gave me early insight into the vulnerability families experience in clinical settings and the importance of clear, compassionate communication. Those experiences strengthened my interest in science and medicine while shaping my understanding of advocacy, trust, and patient-centered care.

Caring for children has always come naturally to me, so pediatrics felt like a natural path. In medical school, that calling was reaffirmed as I witnessed the unique and enduring relationships built between pediatricians and families. I was struck by the resilience of children and the optimism that often fills pediatric visits, even during challenging circumstances. The opportunity to support children’s growth, empower families, and foster long-term trust continues to inspire my commitment to this field.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?

Outside of work, I love spending time with my husband and our three children, ages three, four, and six. Balancing a career with three young children certainly has its challenges, but being a mother has been my greatest accomplishment. Whether we are at home, attending sports activities, or traveling together, I especially love watching the joy my children experience as they learn new skills. Seeing the world through their eyes brings constant perspective and reminds me to appreciate life’s simplest moments.

Who has been a mentor or role model in your life, and what did you learn from them?

While I have been fortunate to learn from many mentors, the greatest role model in my life has been my mother. Although she is no longer with us, her influence continues to guide me every day. She immigrated from Mexico at 17 with limited resources, learned English, enrolled herself in school, and worked tirelessly alongside my father to build a stable life for our family. Despite significant obstacles, she carried herself with strength, optimism, and grace.

She was both strong and gentle – loving yet grounding, adventurous yet cautious. Although she did not have the opportunity to pursue higher education herself, she was unwavering in her commitment to ensuring that my brother and I did. From her, I learned resilience, humility, and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.

In medicine, I have also been fortunate to learn from mentors such as Sutter’s Dr. Saida Hamdani and Dr. Andria Ruth, who was a longtime local pediatrician, who exemplify integrity, intelligence, and deep compassion. Through their example, I have seen that strong moral character and empathy are just as essential as clinical knowledge. Together, these role models have shaped both the physician and the person I strive to be.

What is something you’re currently learning outside of medicine?

Outside of medicine, I am currently exploring cooking through my first cookbook club. Experimenting beyond simple recipes has been a new and creative challenge, allowing me to learn new techniques and flavors. Just as meaningful, the club has provided a wonderful opportunity to connect with other inspiring women, making it both an educational and social experience.

If you could have dinner with any historical or living figure, who would it be and why?

If I could have dinner with any historical figure, it would be Martin Luther King Jr. I deeply admire his courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality. I would want to learn how he sustained hope and purpose in the face of adversity while working to create lasting and meaningful change.  

As Sansum Clinic begins a new chapter as part of Sutter Health, we remain united by a shared mission: to deliver compassionate, high-quality care to the communities we serve. Together, we are shaping the future of healthcare on the Central Coast.

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