Dearborn Heights, Michigan, September 28, 2025
News Summary
Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel, a 13-year-old cancer patient from Houston, was sworn in as an honorary police officer in Dearborn Heights. This ceremony celebrated his courage and goals to inspire others facing difficult situations. DJ has already been honored by nearly 4,000 law enforcement agencies across the U.S., and he continues to raise funds for families in need while sharing his positive message.
Dearborn Heights Honors 13-Year-Old Cancer Patient as Honorary Police Officer
Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel, a 13-year-old boy from Houston, Texas, who is bravely battling brain and spinal cancer, was honored in Metro Detroit as he was sworn in as an honorary police officer for the Michigan cities of Dearborn Heights, Dearborn, and Melvindale during a special ceremony on September 27, 2025. This heartwarming event highlighted the courage and inspiring spirit of DJ, who has set a goal to become an honorary officer with as many law enforcement agencies nationwide as possible.
Over the past months, DJ has traveled around the country, getting sworn in by various law enforcement agencies to pursue his dream. He has already been honored by approximately 4,000 law enforcement agencies nationwide. His family experienced homelessness after Hurricane Harvey hit their home in Houston in 2017, which led DJ to aspire to help people in challenging situations and encourage families to regain stability.
DJ was diagnosed with brain and spinal cancer in 2018 and, at the time, was given only five months to live. Following his diagnosis, he was approached by Baylor College of Medicine for an experimental medicine trial that significantly improved his prognosis. Despite undergoing 13 brain surgeries throughout his young life, DJ’s resilient personality continues to shine, winning the hearts of those around him.
During the ceremony in Dearborn Heights, DJ officially signed the record book, solidifying his oath as an honorary law enforcement officer. The event brought together community members and law enforcement officials, underscoring the significance of unity and support amid difficult times. Police Chief Ahmed Haidar praised DJ as an “amazing young man” who deserves the utmost respect.
As part of the ceremony, DJ tested his shooting skills on the police department’s training simulator, demonstrating his enthusiasm for the role he aspires to fulfill. DJ’s achievements also include being made an honorary member of the U.S. Secret Service by President Trump during a joint session of Congress in March.
In addition to his aspirations, DJ and his family have engaged in various charitable acts, raising money for families in need, including assistance in covering a woman’s burial costs. Recently, DJ helped raise $200,000 alongside country artist Jason Aldean for a charitable cause, generously ensuring that the funds would be used for the benefit of others rather than for himself.
In his journey, DJ has offered words of encouragement to those facing their own challenges, urging them to keep their heads up, maintain faith, and trust in God. He has expressed profound gratitude for his family, which includes his dad, two brothers, mom, and grandmother, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout his health battles.
This remarkable event in Metro Detroit not only honored DJ’s spirit but also served as a reminder of the power of community and the importance of empathy and understanding in times of hardship.
FAQ
Who is Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel?
Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel is a 13-year-old boy from Houston, Texas, battling brain and spinal cancer.
What honor was DJ Daniel given in Metro Detroit?
DJ was sworn in as an honorary police officer for the cities of Dearborn Heights, Dearborn, and Melvindale during a special ceremony on September 27, 2025.
What inspired DJ Daniel to become an honorary police officer?
DJ’s family became homeless after Hurricane Harvey hit their home in Houston in 2017, inspiring his dream to help people in bad situations after encountering police officers while in a shelter.
How many law enforcement agencies has DJ been sworn in by?
DJ has been sworn in by approximately 4,000 law enforcement agencies nationwide.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Date | September 27, 2025 |
| Location | Dearborn Heights, Michigan |
| Honorary Title | Honorary police officer for three Michigan cities |
| Number of Agencies | Approximately 4,000 law enforcement agencies sworn in nationwide |
| Key Personal Background | Homeless after Hurricane Harvey; diagnosed with cancer in 2018 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WXYZ: 13-Year-Old Cancer Patient Sworn In as Honorary Officer
- CBS News: DJ Daniel Cancer Honored by Metro Detroit Law Enforcement
- Metro Detroit News: DJ Daniel Sworn In as Honorary Officer
- Fox 2 Detroit: Video on DJ Daniel
- Arab American News: Local Police Departments Honor DJ Daniel
- Wikipedia: Cancer
- Google Search: Cancer Research
- Google Scholar: Cancer Treatment
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cancer
- Google News: Cancer Patient Stories
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