The initial results of 19 autologous and 1 syngeneic bone marrow transplantations, done in children with neuroblastomas (14), non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (3), Ewing sarcoma (1), acute lymphocytic (1) and non-lymphocytic (1) leukemias, pioneerely started in Brazil in February, 1987, and specially after the beginning of the ICR Marrow Transplantation Program, in October, 1989, are here described. Methodology, toxicity and survival are discussed. The efforts for establishing a high technology program in a public and universitarian institution, deeply supported by the community, are emphasized. Future directions are also discussed.