A 12-year-old girl battling cancer became the Chicago Police Department's youngest recruit Tuesday.
Emily Beazley, 12, has seen Chicagoans throw dance parties, light up Soldier Field with her favorite colors, and even name a street after her.
The Chicago Police Department named Beazley and her sister, Olivia, whom she called her "partner in crime," honorary officers at a midday ceremony at noon in the main lobby of police headquarters at 3510 S. Michigan Ave.
Beazley, battling an aggressive cancer called Hodgkins-Lymphona, inspired the city to dramatic outpourings of support. Her favorite colors, purple and green, blanketed Chicago when the news broke that her cancer treatment was no longer working, and doctors were sending her home.
Emily's supporters are working to fulfill one last dream -- a chance to hear from Taylor Swift. Hundreds of Emily’s supporters rallied online, creating a dance video and reaching out to the pop singer on social media. Swift’s publicist did not immediately return a response for comment.
But even in the face of cancer, the girls continue to be honored by the city. And as the newest members of Chicago’s police department, Beazley and her sister will get another chance to shake it off.
