Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel has made headlines once again as he was sworn in as the honorary deputy mayor for public safety in New York City. The touching event took place on Tuesday morning, where the 13-year-old cancer survivor showcased not just his remarkable journey but also the strength of family bonds. DJ expressed heartfelt gratitude during the ceremony, stating, “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for my daddy,” highlighting the unwavering support he has received from his father, Theodis.
DJ’s spirit is infectious. His father has driven him tirelessly to his many engagements, making the sacrifices necessary to support his son’s dreams. “No matter how tired he is, he still gets the job done,” DJ remarked, echoing a phrase from Texas: “we don’t say we get it done, we get ‘er done.” This sentiment reflects the determination seen in both father and son as they confront challenges together.
The timing of the ceremony came with its own layers of nuance. Mayor Eric Adams announced that the current Deputy Mayor for Public Safety, Kaz Daughtry, would be “stepping aside” for this memorable occasion. While Adams teased that this was merely a temporary role swap, the backdrop of political turbulence, including recent indictments involving Adams’ associates, adds a layer of complexity to this uplifting story.
Throughout his battle with cancer, DJ has gained significant recognition, setting a Guinness World Record by being sworn into more than 1,350 law enforcement agencies. His tenure as honorary New York City police commissioner earlier this year is just one example of his profound impact, illustrating his dedication to raising awareness about childhood cancer.
President Trump further solidified DJ’s significance during his joint address to Congress, where he was named an honorary U.S. Secret Service agent. The honor was met with cheers from lawmakers and served as a pivotal moment in DJ’s journey, showcasing not only his strength but also the connection he has forged with prominent figures.
In his remarks at the swearing-in, Mayor Adams spoke to DJ’s character and experience. “When it comes to choosing people to serve in the critical role, we are looking for courage, commitment and experience,” he stated. “He has the experience that we need. He’s battle-tested. He’s a battle-tested leader with a strong record of public service.” Such praise underscores how the community values DJ’s contributions, especially at such a young age.
Today, DJ’s official duties will see him visiting iconic locations such as the Empire State Building, a symbolic venture that underscores his newfound role as deputy mayor. Following the ceremony, DJ received a “Deputy Mayor DJ” uniform and a proclamation, cementing this milestone in his life.
DJ’s journey has not been easy. He was diagnosed with terminal brain and spinal cancer at just six years old, given a prognosis of only five months to live. Despite the grim predictions, he has continued to rise above the odds. As Daniel put it in a recent interview, “DJ initially had five months to live, and we’ve beaten that.” His resilience is inspiring to many, and his determination to become a police officer remains steadfast. The encouragement he has received from law enforcement officials across the nation reflects not only admiration for his spirit but also a commitment to supporting a brave young man battling against the odds.
His swearing-in ceremony is a testament to the importance of hope, family, and community—qualities that resonate deeply within the fabric of society. DJ’s story reminds us all of the power of perseverance and the strength that comes from standing together in the face of adversity.
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