Honoring the Zadroga Legacy – Support for Tyler Ann

Hi everyone,

I’m starting this GoFundMe on behalf of Tyler Ann Zadroga, who has endured more loss than anyone should ever have to face. Her world was turned upside down once again with the tragic passing of her beloved grandmother, Linda Zadroga, on March 3, 2025.

By the age of six, Tyler Ann had already experienced heartbreaking loss. Her mother passed away unexpectedly when she was just one year old. Five years later, her father, NYPD Detective James Zadroga, lost his life due to a 9/11-related illness.

From that moment on, her grandparents, Linda and Joseph (Joe) Zadroga, became her entire world. They provided her with love, stability, and the strength to carry on despite the unimaginable grief she had already endured.

In addition to raising their granddaughter, Linda and Joe dedicated their lives to ensuring that 9/11 first responders received the healthcare and support they desperately needed. Joe, a retired police chief, and Linda spent years traveling to Congress, with their young granddaughter by their side, fighting to pass legislation that could have saved their son. Their tireless advocacy led to the passage of the Zadroga Bill in 2015, securing healthcare for those affected by 9/11.

But tragedy struck again in 2024.

Linda was hospitalized in late 2023 with serious health complications, and doctors recommended amputation. Joe, determined to ensure she received the best possible care, never left her side. Then, on January 13, 2024, after spending the morning with his wife in the hospital, Joe was tragically struck and killed by a car in the parking lot.

Suddenly, Tyler Ann and her grandmother were left to navigate life on their own. Less than a week after Joe’s passing, doctors proceeded with the amputation, leaving Linda in need of full-time care. At just [Tyler Ann’s age], she became her grandmother’s sole caregiver, all while grieving the sudden loss of her grandfather.

The past year has been incredibly difficult—both emotionally and financially. Tyler Ann took on the full responsibility of caring for her grandmother, ensuring she had everything she needed while also covering mounting expenses. Between funeral costs ($20,000), medical bills, and the installation of a stair lift ($15,000) to help Linda get in and out of their home, she has incurred tens of thousands of dollars in expenses.

Despite all the hardships, Tyler Ann remained dedicated to her grandmother’s care. Linda’s health continued to decline, leading to multiple hospital visits each month, and doctors were preparing for another amputation. But she fought tirelessly, determined to push through every challenge.

Then, on March 3, 2025, Linda was admitted to the hospital for a routine blood transfusion. What should have been a standard procedure turned into an unimaginable tragedy—Linda passed away suddenly, leaving Tyler Ann without the one person she had left.

Now, after a lifetime of loss, Tyler Ann is facing overwhelming grief and immense financial strain. Her family devoted their lives to helping others, and now she needs our help.

If you are able to donate, any amount would mean the world in helping Tyler Ann with funeral costs, outstanding medical bills, and getting back on her feet after this devastating loss. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser and keeping her in your thoughts would be just as meaningful.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support during this heartbreaking time.

Viewing: Sunday, March 9th, from 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Location: Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Dr, Kearny, NJ 07032

Funeral Mass: Monday, March 10th, at 11:00 AM

Location: Queen of Peace Church, 10 Franklin Pl, North Arlington, NJ 07031