High school is hard for all students, but it’s even more difficult for somebody who is dealing with personal challenges that most teens don’t. That is the case for freshman Alexa, who is undergoing cancer treatment while trying to adjust to high school. She maintains her outgoing personality and enthusiasm for life despite her health issues, thanks in part to loyal best friend Katie remaining by her side through it all. Whether they’re at school, home or the hospital, the girls are always by each other’s side through thick and thin. Also part of Alexa’s life is determined and protective mother Lori.

“Hey, they’ll figure it out, OK?” Mendoza’s best friend, Katie Cooper, responds sympathetically, and then teases, “You’ll do something crazy and really dumb and they’ll all get to see exactly who you are.” Moments later, the two friends shave one fat strip of hair, right down the middle of their heads. It’s a pivotal scene in “Alexa & Katie,” a show that, true to its genre, captures teens grappling with typical high school dramas while Alexa also contends with cancer.