For Immediate Release

Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Natick Police Recognize Local Business Owners who Donated $6,000 to Cops for Kids with Cancer

NATICK– Chief James Hicks and the Natick Police Department are pleased to announce a significant donation made to Cops for Kids with Cancer on behalf of Connor Heffler, the son of Natick Police Department School Resource Officer Elizabeth Heffler, who passed away in November after a 20-month battle with cancer.

David Shapiro, a Natick resident and owner of Bay State Strategies, did not know Connor or his family, but was moved by his story and reached out to Chief Hicks to make a donation. Bay State reached out to Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) and the two businesses donated a total of $6,000.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the donation on behalf of Connor,” Chief Hicks said. “The generosity and support of our community continues to make me proud. These residents have honored Connor’s memory, as well as provide an opportunity to help children currently battling cancer.”

Heffler was diagnosed with Glioblastoma, a Stage 4 terminal cancer, at the age of 10. The son of Officer Heffler and Steve Heffler, an electrician for the Department of Public Works, he is remembered for his infectious personality, positive outlook and big heart.

About Cops For Kids With Cancer:

In 2005, retired Boston Police Captain John Dow and his wife, Joan, wanted to find a way to support children with cancer who were being treated at Massachusetts General Hospital. Captain Dow, a cancer survivor, was sensitive to the needs of cancer patients and had a particular empathy for children undergoing difficult treatments. Soon after, the non-profit he founded, Cops For Kids With Cancer, began directing significant support to pediatric cancer patients at Massachusetts General Hospital. Cops For Kids With Cancer supports emergency assistance to families, events for patients and their families, and special “wishes” for teens, who are too old to be served by the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Captain Dow lost his battle with cancer in 2007, but his vision of supporting children and their families continues.

Former Boston Police Superintendent-in-Chief Robert Faherty served in the Boston Police Department from 1960 to 2000 and currently holds the role as the Chairman of the Board of Cops For Kids With Cancer.

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