Key Point Summary – DJ Daniel cancer battle
- DJ Daniel falsely rumored to be in ICU after brain surgery
- Teen quickly shut down reports, confirmed he was stable
- 13-year-old has battled brain and spine cancer since 2018
- Honored by President Trump at 2025 joint session of Congress
- Over 1,350 police departments have sworn him in as honorary officer
- Guinness World Record holder for most law enforcement inductions
- Family continues to provide updates while awaiting test results
False ICU Reports Spark Panic Online
The DJ Daniel cancer battle took a dramatic turn Monday night when social media erupted with reports claiming the brave teen was in intensive care after brain surgery. But within hours, the story unraveled.
Thirteen-year-old Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel and his father, Theodis, posted a blunt message to Facebook: DJ was not in the ICU and was, in fact, preparing for a visit to New Jersey’s Cliffside Park Police Department.
Despite ongoing health challenges, the boy remains in high spirits.
Media Misfire Triggers Confusion
The source of the false alarm? Harris County Constable Mark Herman. He posted an urgent plea for prayers late Monday, claiming DJ had undergone surgery and was in serious condition.
That post spread fast. But just 30 minutes later, it was quietly edited to remove all medical claims. Herman has not apologized or addressed the false update publicly.
Many online slammed the original post as irresponsible. Others defended the constable, saying he had good intentions.
DJ Keeps Pushing Through Tumors
DJ Daniel has lived with cancer since 2018. Doctors once gave him five months to live. He’s now outlived that by more than six years.
Two weeks ago, his father revealed that new tumors had been discovered. The news was heartbreaking but not unexpected. DJ has endured countless hospital visits, MRIs, and treatments.
Yet through it all, he smiles. He inspires.
Nation Rallies Around DJ
This week, DJ heads to New Jersey. Cliffside Park Police will honor him on Wednesday. That visit will mark his 1,351st swearing-in ceremony with law enforcement.
He holds a Guinness World Record for most honorary inductions by police agencies. DJ’s dream? To one day become a real officer.
And he has no intention of slowing down.
Trump Pays Tribute At Congress
On March 4, 2025, DJ received the spotlight of a lifetime. During a joint session of Congress, President Trump invited the teen to sit near the First Lady.
Trump paused his speech to honor DJ. He spoke about the DJ Daniel cancer battle and praised the teen’s courage, calling him a “national hero.”
The moment was broadcast to millions. DJ was sworn in by the Secret Service that same evening.
Fighting On With Faith
DJ continues to post from his hospital bed. On June 5, he shared a video update, IV still in his arm, saying he had just finished his two MRIs and felt good.
His father later confirmed they are awaiting results. Though weary from the fight, both remain hopeful.
Support continues pouring in from around the country. Police departments, cancer survivors, and families dealing with childhood illness say DJ gives them strength.
Outlook Clouded But Hopeful
The DJ Daniel cancer battle is far from over. New tumors mean more tests, more treatments, more pain. But DJ isn’t backing down.
His mission remains clear: bring light, love, and laughter to as many people as possible. With a badge on his chest and a dream in his heart, he keeps moving forward.
Whether in front of Congress or in a hospital gown, DJ Daniel shows what courage really looks like.
