A 3-year-old boy battling a unique form of cancer got his wish Wednesday to join the ranks of the Chicago Police Department.
David Juarez, who has neuroblastoma, a cancer attacking his nervous system, got a CPD motorcycle escort and was sworn in as a Chicago police officer, thanks to the Make-a-Wish Foundation. He was even sworn in by Chicago Police Supt. Eddie Johnson.
After reading David his responsibilities, Johnson asked “Do you accept?”
David paused for a moment before nodding in affirmation to the applause of his fellow officers. Johnson then bestowed upon the young officer his very own badge and certificate before they exchanged a vigorous salute.
His family says it's been David’s dream to become a cop, and the nonprofit helped make that dream come true for the day.
"He's met a lot of great officers and so many people are supporting him, and they are having a good time being a part of David's wish," Jessica Miller, of Make-a-Wish Illinois, told NBC 5.
David, diagnosed a year ago, got to trade in steroid shots and chemo for a badge and a day of activities fit for a courageous kid.
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With some help from his squadmates, David chased around cartoonesque characters, like a kitty-cat burglar and a T-Rex, and placed them under arrest.
By the end of the day the pooped little patrolman took a nap — but was headed to more police training at McCormick Place when he awoke.
“Officer Juarez makes a number of arrests in his first day on the job. Great work!” the Chicago Police Department tweeted Wednesday afternoon.