DJ Daniel, a remarkable 13-year-old boy currently battling brain cancer, achieved a significant milestone recently when he had the honor of visiting former President Donald Trump in the Oval Office. Daniel’s visit occurred following an extraordinary moment during Trump’s address to Congress, where he was made an honorary Secret Service agent. This poignant gesture, which touched the hearts of many in the audience and those watching from afar, was a testament to DJ’s incredible spirit and resilience amidst his ongoing health challenges.
During his noteworthy meeting with President Trump, DJ Daniel also had a unique opportunity to further his aspirations of being involved in law enforcement. On a subsequent Sunday, amidst camaraderie and support, he was sworn in as an honorary officer of the United States Park Police by Doug Burgum, the Secretary of the Interior. This remarkable event was not only a fulfillment of a personal dream for DJ, but it also symbolized the support and admiration from law enforcement communities. As Secretary Burgum shared on the social media platform X, DJ’s tenacity in his cancer battle has been a source of inspiration nationwide.
Moreover, following his swearing-in ceremony, DJ was given the chance to patrol the iconic National Mall. The agency recognized his exemplary conduct during this duty, attesting that he exhibited “the highest degree of honor, integrity, and service.” Daniel’s enthusiastic engagement in law enforcement activities reflects not just a passion for service but also a profound desire to connect and inspire others, especially those who are also battling adversities.
Daniel first garnered public attention on March 4, 2025, during a highly publicized joint address to Congress by Donald Trump, where he received heartfelt recognition from the former President. This acknowledgment captured the emotional atmosphere of the evening, leading to a standing ovation from Congress members and marking a significant moment in Daniel’s journey. Post his recognition, DJ had the privilege of visiting the Secret Service Training Center on March 19, where he celebrated the achievements of the latest graduating class alongside notable figures like Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Secret Service Director Sean Curran—an occasion that surely added to his growing legacy.
Determined not to let his health battles define him, DJ Daniel has a remarkable story that highlights his relentless courage. Diagnosed with brain and spinal cancer in 2018 and initially given only five months to live, DJ has surpassed incredible odds, undergoing more than 13 brain surgeries along the way. His father, Theodis Daniel, proudly states that his son is not just surviving but thriving against the odds. DJ’s message to children facing similar health hurdles is simple yet powerful: “Have faith. Believe in God. Listen to your parents,” a beacon of hope for many.
As DJ’s journey progresses, the Daniel family remains active and engaged, with plans to continue visiting various law enforcement agencies across the United States. By the end of March 2025, DJ had managed to achieve being sworn in as an honorary member of 914 different agencies, steadily working towards his ambitious goal of being recognized by 1,000 law enforcement organizations. In addition to this impressive feat, he holds records for receiving the most keys to the city and the largest number of designated “proclamation days.”
This ambitious young boy exemplifies what it means to defy the odds while inspiring countless others along the way. DJ Daniel’s story, as reported by Fox News Digital’s Alexandra Koch, serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the communal support that can emerge in times of hardship. His journey continues, inspiring a nation and leaving an indelible mark on all those who hear his story.
