A 13-year-old boy from Texas, battling brain and spinal cancer, was recently sworn in as an honorary police officer by three police departments in Metro Detroit. DJ Daniels received this honor during a heartfelt ceremony at the Dearborn Heights Police Department, marking a significant moment in his ongoing fight against cancer.
The event was organized by the Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, and Melvindale Police Departments. DJ’s journey has been extraordinary, especially considering that doctors initially gave him only five months to live. Despite the odds, he has undergone 13 brain surgeries and remains determined to spread positivity and fulfill his dream of becoming an honorary officer with law enforcement agencies across the United States.
“I’m never going to forget none of this,” DJ said, reflecting on the special occasion. His father, Theodis Daniel, expressed the deep significance of these moments, stating, “It means a great deal and a lot because I don’t know when it’s going to end.”
DJ’s mission is to become an honorary officer with as many law enforcement agencies as possible before his time runs out, a phrase he uses to describe his fight against cancer. So far, he has achieved this honor with approximately 4,000 law enforcement agencies nationwide. When asked about his ultimate goal, DJ simply replied, “I’m just going to get as many as I can.”
In a notable recognition earlier this year, former President Donald Trump named DJ an honorary member of the U.S. Secret Service. This moment was particularly emotional for Theodis, who emphasized the importance of focusing on DJ’s story rather than political affiliations. “It was about a little boy that was struggling, and he made it all the way to the White House,” he said.
DJ’s aspiration to join law enforcement began when he witnessed officers providing assistance to his family during difficult times. “But they helped us, so I wanted to become one, and I just wanted to help more people,” he explained. His commitment to helping others is evident, as he and his father have raised funds for families in need. Recently, they helped secure funding for a woman struggling to bury her loved one and contributed $200,000 alongside country singer Jason Aldean for charity.
Despite his ongoing battle with cancer, which has seen the emergence of three new tumors earlier this year, DJ remains a beacon of hope and resilience. He encourages others facing similar challenges to “keep your head up, believe in God, stay safe, have faith.”
When reflecting on what he is most grateful for, DJ’s answer is heartfelt and simple. “I’m grateful for my dad and my two brothers and my mom and my grandma,” he stated.
For those wishing to support DJ and his family, donations can be made through provided links, and updates on his journey can be followed on social media platforms.
This story has been reported with the assistance of professional journalists to ensure accuracy and fairness.
