On Friday, New York City firefighters and Knicks legends gathered ahead of a St. John’s basketball game to support the daughter of a firefighter. Four-year-old Izzy Cashion is facing a tough battle against a rare brain tumor known as DIPG (diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma).
Izzy was diagnosed with this challenging condition last August during an FDNY picnic. Her father, Tim Cashion, serves as a lieutenant on Engine 46, and they are preparing to leave New York for a clinical trial at Stanford University starting Saturday.
“While they went through a long two-month ordeal, the family has been incredibly appreciative of the community support that helped them find a place to stay during this time,” said Mimi Coluccio, managing director of NYFF, referring to the Cashion family.
The event was backed by the law firm Sullivan Papain and the New York Firefighters Foundation, featuring appearances by former Knicks stars Alan Houston and John Starks. Organizers emphasized the purpose was to raise awareness and support for Izzy.
John Starks shared thoughts on the importance of such gatherings: “It reflects how the St. John’s and New York community values firefighters and their contributions, and it reminds us that we stand together during difficult times.”
He added, “New Yorkers remember all that firefighters have done for us. This event is about unity and ensuring they know we’re here to help when it matters most.”
The law firm Sullivan Papain also announced a $10,000 donation to NYFF, aimed at assisting FDNY families facing challenges outside of work.
