Thirteen-year-old Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel, who captured the nation’s heart when honored by President Trump, now faces a new battle as doctors discover three additional tumors in his ongoing fight against terminal brain cancer.
At a Glance
- DJ Daniel was diagnosed with incurable brain and spine cancer in 2018 and given just five months to live, but has defied the odds for years
- He was sworn in as an honorary Secret Service agent by President Trump and has been made an honorary member of 1,351 law enforcement agencies
- Despite undergoing 13 brain surgeries and experimental treatments, DJ recently received news of three new tumors
- The White House has issued a statement asking Americans to pray for DJ as he faces this latest health challenge
- DJ maintains an inspirational outlook, saying he’ll “keep going until my gas tank runs out”
A Young Man’s Extraordinary Journey
When doctors diagnosed Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel with terminal brain and spine cancer in 2018, they gave the young boy just five months to live. Today, five years later, the 13-year-old continues to defy medical expectations while inspiring millions across America with his unbreakable spirit. DJ has undergone 13 brain surgeries and numerous experimental treatments in his battle against cancer, showing remarkable resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. His journey caught national attention when President Trump and First Lady Melania honored him during a joint session of Congress earlier this year, where he was sworn in as an honorary Secret Service agent.
“I’ll keep going until my gas tank runs out, and that’s when God calls you home. The craziest thing is on my 11th brain surgery, God told me I was one of his angels and I’m doing God’s work.”, said Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel.
Living His Dream Through Honorary Badges
While DJ’s medical condition prevents him from becoming a police officer, law enforcement agencies nationwide have embraced his dream by making him an honorary member of their forces. What began as a modest goal to be sworn in by 100 agencies has transformed into an extraordinary achievement. DJ has been ceremoniously sworn in by 1,351 law enforcement agencies nationwide, far surpassing his initial target. This remarkable accomplishment has made him eligible for multiple Guinness World Records, including “most keys to the city” and “most proclamation days” received by an individual.
“Today, he’s 13 years old and living life to the fullest because, as he puts it, ‘you never know when God’s gonna call you home.’ DJ and his father have traveled around the country, visiting various law enforcement agencies, and many of them have made him an honorary police officer.”, added DJ Daniel.
A Father’s Devotion Through Unimaginable Challenges
Throughout DJ’s cancer battle, his father Theodis Daniel has remained a pillar of strength and advocacy. Together, they’ve traveled the country for medical treatments and law enforcement ceremonies, using their journey to spread a message of compassion and unity. The elder Daniel has been candid about the difficulties of watching his son battle a terminal illness, yet remains committed to making every moment count. Their story has touched countless lives, turning personal tragedy into an opportunity to bring communities together and highlight the importance of supporting one another through life’s most difficult challenges.
“It’s rough, there isn’t a class that can teach you how to deal with it. You’re hearing that your child has a nasty disease.”, said Theodis Daniel.
New Health Challenges and National Support
The recent discovery of three new tumors marks a serious setback in DJ’s ongoing battle with cancer. In response, the White House released a statement asking Americans to pray for the brave young man who has inspired so many. Despite facing this heartbreaking health update, DJ continues to participate in swearing-in ceremonies when his health permits, maintaining the positive outlook that has defined his journey. His determination to continue “doing God’s work” despite physical challenges serves as a powerful reminder of human resilience in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
As DJ faces this next chapter in his extraordinary journey, the outpouring of support from law enforcement agencies, government officials, and everyday Americans continues to grow. His story transcends politics, touching hearts across the nation and reminding us all of the power of hope, faith, and determination in even the darkest circumstances. Though the road ahead remains uncertain, DJ’s legacy of courage already stands as an inspiration to millions.
