Devarjaye 'DJ' Daniel, the 13-year-old Texas boy who captured hearts across America with his courage in battling terminal brain cancer and his dream of becoming a police officer, has been diagnosed with three new tumours, the White House confirmed on Friday.
DJ, who was sworn in by US President Donald Trump earlier this year during a joint session of Congress, became a national symbol of resilience and hope. Despite receiving a grim prognosis in 2018, doctors then said he had less than five months to live. DJ has undergone numerous brain surgeries and defied expectations, thanks in part to a clinical research program.
His father, Theodis Daniel, shared the news with White House officials.
“We’re lifting up Agent DJ Daniel in prayer after his dad, Theodis, shared that DJ is now facing three new tumors,” the White House posted on X. “DJ is one of the strongest, bravest young men—and has now been sworn into 1,351 law enforcement agencies across the country. Agent Daniel, you're a true legend.”
A boy with a big dream
DJ’s dream of becoming a police officer has taken him on a cross-country journey of honour. With the support of law enforcement agencies nationwide, he has been ceremonially sworn in by over 1,300 departments, surpassing his original goal of 1,000 and setting a new benchmark of inspiration.
His most recent swearing-in was with the Williamson County sheriff’s office in Texas. Deputy Jeffrey Combs recalled the emotional moment: “I saw Theodis pick his son up. I felt that unconditional love, and I just knew I had to find DJ. So, it all worked out.”
In April, DJ was also named an honorary officer of the United States park police by interior secretary Doug Burgum, himself a cancer survivor.
Family’s unwavering hope
Speaking to FOX 7 Austin, Theodis Daniel described the toll the new diagnosis has taken on the family. “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,” he said. “We’re just winging it day by day.”
Despite the worsening prognosis, DJ’s family continues to spread a message of unity and compassion. “We're just going around showing people, ‘Hey, you do care for one another,’” Theodis said. “Let’s give compassion, and let’s try to join and help each other get through things.”
DJ, who was sworn in by US President Donald Trump earlier this year during a joint session of Congress, became a national symbol of resilience and hope. Despite receiving a grim prognosis in 2018, doctors then said he had less than five months to live. DJ has undergone numerous brain surgeries and defied expectations, thanks in part to a clinical research program.
His father, Theodis Daniel, shared the news with White House officials.
“We’re lifting up Agent DJ Daniel in prayer after his dad, Theodis, shared that DJ is now facing three new tumors,” the White House posted on X. “DJ is one of the strongest, bravest young men—and has now been sworn into 1,351 law enforcement agencies across the country. Agent Daniel, you're a true legend.”
A boy with a big dream
DJ’s dream of becoming a police officer has taken him on a cross-country journey of honour. With the support of law enforcement agencies nationwide, he has been ceremonially sworn in by over 1,300 departments, surpassing his original goal of 1,000 and setting a new benchmark of inspiration.
His most recent swearing-in was with the Williamson County sheriff’s office in Texas. Deputy Jeffrey Combs recalled the emotional moment: “I saw Theodis pick his son up. I felt that unconditional love, and I just knew I had to find DJ. So, it all worked out.”
In April, DJ was also named an honorary officer of the United States park police by interior secretary Doug Burgum, himself a cancer survivor.
Family’s unwavering hope
Speaking to FOX 7 Austin, Theodis Daniel described the toll the new diagnosis has taken on the family. “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,” he said. “We’re just winging it day by day.”
Despite the worsening prognosis, DJ’s family continues to spread a message of unity and compassion. “We're just going around showing people, ‘Hey, you do care for one another,’” Theodis said. “Let’s give compassion, and let’s try to join and help each other get through things.”
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