Your Northville Township Firefighters were honored to team up with an incredibly brave young member of our community—Emilia—to help make her birthday wish come true in the most meaningful way possible.
In April of 2025, the Fire Department co‑hosted its first‑ever toy drive dedicated to fulfilling Emilia’s wish: collecting new, unopened, and unwrapped toys for children receiving care at University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. During her birthday week, Emilia and her family personally delivered the toys to the hospital with support from Northville Township firefighters, police officers, and the Northville Township Firefighters Charity Fund.
Emilia’s Story of Strength and Giving
Emilia was diagnosed in October 2023 with high‑risk neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer that affects nerve tissue. Although she is currently in remission, last year’s birthday was spent at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital after a life‑threatening battle with sepsis. This year, instead of focusing on herself, Emilia and her family are determined to bring comfort, joy, and smiles to other children facing similar challenges.
A Family Committed to Giving Back
This toy drive is far from Emilia’s first act of generosity. Her family previously participated in the LemonAid Challenge on social media to raise awareness about the underfunding of pediatric cancer research. Through that effort, they raised $11,000, donating most of it to pediatric cancer organizations and directly to families at Mott Children’s Hospital.
A Special Connection With Our Fire Family
The Northville Township Fire Department has known Emilia for several years. Firefighters first met her when she toured Station No. 1, and later supported her family during an emergency call at their home. Since then, the bond between Emilia’s family and the Fire Department has continued to grow.
Thank you to all who helped us make Emilia’s birthday wish come true—and to those who support the children and families who need it most.
