Boy Honored by Trump Vows Cancer Won’t Slow Him Down Until 'God Calls' Him Home

Devarjaye "DJ" Daniel, a 13-year-old battling brain cancer, has defied the odds and captured hearts across the nation. Recognized by former President Donald Trump during a speech to Congress, DJ’s story is one of resilience, determination, and hope. The applause and standing ovations in the room underscored the impact of his journey.

DJ, who was diagnosed in 2018 with high-grade anaplastic ependymoma, a rare and aggressive brain tumor, has endured 13 brain surgeries. His personality has changed with each one, his father, Theodis Daniel, shared. Yet, DJ remains undaunted. When asked about his mission, he replied, "Well, once I reach 1,000 badges, I'm just going to keep on going until my gas tank runs out. That's when God calls you home." That’s one way to put life into perspective, isn’t it?

DJ has already received honorary badges from 908 law enforcement agencies across the country, surpassing his initial goal of 100. His dream of becoming a police officer stems from the kindness officers have shown him over the years. "They helped us. So I became one. And I want to help other people," DJ said. His ambitions don’t stop there—he also hopes to support the homeless, saying, "You [can] take them, get them clean and get them back to where they can work." A young man with a plan and a heart of gold.

President Trump, during his speech, highlighted DJ’s strength and longevity despite being given just five months to live back in 2018. The following day, DJ visited Trump in the Oval Office, where he gave the former president a heartfelt hug. Moments like these remind us that even the highest offices can pause to honor greatness in its purest form.

DJ’s father, Theodis, reflected on their journey: "When you go through things and you overcome them, it builds integrity and character. You become a better version of yourself." He also expressed excitement about the Make America Healthy Again movement, which aims to improve the lives of children battling illnesses like DJ’s. Theodis added, "It just breaks your heart to see [what] these kids go through. But the spirit of resilience and tenacity, it's overwhelming." I mean, if DJ isn’t the poster child for resilience, who is?

Despite his diagnosis, DJ continues to inspire. He is a remarkable reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of staying positive through life’s toughest battles. As his father wisely said, "You got to stay supremely positive and stay prayed up." Wise words to live by, no doubt.