BCAT News

Burlington Police and Cops for Kids with Cancer came together this week at the Burlington Police Department to present 4-year-old Zoya Bilimoria and her family with a $5,500 check as she continues treatment for a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer.

Zoya, a Burlington resident, was diagnosed on March 12, 2024 with metastatic pineoblastoma. She is currently undergoing intensive outpatient treatment, receiving weekly care at the Jimmy Fund Clinic and Boston Children’s Hospital.

Zoya Bilimoria smiles while holding a teddy bear gifted during a visit with Burlington Police and Cops for Kids with Cancer. (Photo courtesy Burlington Police Department)

Due to the complexity of her condition, Zoya also receives specialized treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. The coordination of care across multiple medical institutions has created a significant financial burden for her family.

Cops for Kids with Cancer, a nonprofit organization that partners with local law enforcement agencies across New England, provides financial assistance to families of children battling cancer. The funds are not designated for a specific purpose, allowing families to use them for medical expenses or the day-to-day costs associated with ongoing treatment.

On Thursday, March 19, members of the organization visited the Burlington Police Department to present the check, along with a teddy bear, shirts, and other gifts to Zoya and her family. During the visit, Burlington Police welcomed Zoya to the station and introduced her to several officers.

Deputy Chief Gary Hannagan and Special Traffic Officer Sal Mirabella Jr., both of the Chelmsford Police Department and board members of Cops for Kids with Cancer, participated in the presentation.

“Cops for Kids with Cancer is honored to stand alongside the Bilimoria family as they navigate this incredibly challenging journey,” said Deputy Chief Hannagan. “We hope this support provides some relief and allows the family to focus on what matters most, Zoya’s care and recovery. Her infectious smile and larger-than-life personality have a way of filling your heart, and we are all rooting for her every step of the way.”

“Zoya’s courage, strength and resiliency are an inspiration to all of us at the Burlington Police Department,” said Chief Thomas Browne. “We are proud to stand behind Zoya and the Bilimoria family, and grateful to Cops for Kids with Cancer for the tremendous work that they do.”