Pediatric cancer research receives 4% of funding, Rutland mother says

Pediatric cancer research receives 4% of available research funding, according to Danielle Jankowski of Rutland, whose daughter died of the disease at age 3.

Zamara Austin was diagnosed on Dec. 27, 2023, with stage 4 metastatic neuroblastoma cancer, 11 days after turning 2. She was admitted to the hospital shortly after her birthday on Dec. 16, 2023. She died on Jan. 25, 2024, after living with the illness for nearly 14 months.

"Z is a silly, happy, goofy little baby," Jankowski said. "She suffered for almost 14 months of her life and, unfortunately, passed away January 25, 2024."

Jankowski said the chemotherapy used to treat children carries severe side effects. "The chemo they get honestly kills them a lot more," she said. "It gives them lifelong effects, and they really deserve a lot more of a fighting chance in life and for a future."

Jankowski organized a "Fill the Boot" coin drop on Merchants Row in Rutland with the American Cancer Society and local emergency personnel. The event invites the public to drive by, meet first responders, and place donations in boots. Nicole Jorgsen, senior manager at the American Cancer Society, said Jankowski approached her about the event and handles the administrative work behind it.

"She has put all this together, and she's got support from the police and fire departments and really just looking to help raise awareness," Jorgsen said. Jorgsen also said Jankowski is working with the ACS Cancer Action Network, an advocacy group that works with legislators on training, information, and resources.

Acting Patrol Sergeant Sean Maguire of the Rutland Police Department is a three-time cancer survivor and will support the coin drop alongside other first responders from the area. "It has really touched my heart and soul, and having the opportunity to be able to go out there and ultimately help a family down the road somewhere else, I just have a lot of faith in the fact that I need to be part of something like that," Maguire said.

Jankowski organized the Last Ride memorial tribute parade for Zamara in 2024, which was organized by the Pittsford Fire Department in Pittsford. She also volunteers at the American Cancer Society and participates in Relay for Life.

Jankowski works as a certified clinical medical assistant and is studying to become a pediatric oncology nurse. She is also a foster parent in Vermont. "Pediatric Cancer should have happened a long time ago; that's why I'm trying to bring it to light now," Jankowski said.