Officers at Manatee County Sheriff’s Office in Florida have gone above and beyond to encourage one little boy who is fighting for his life.
Jeremiah is only 5 years old, but he has already been through a lot. He was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a cancer that develops from immature nerve cells, and quickly began treatments.
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic complicated his treatment this year. With his immune system compromised, he spent much of his time shuttling between the hospital and his home with little room left for fun. But throughout every hard moment, he’s had his local law enforcement officers to help him through!
“He loves police officers. He’s always so excited to see them,” his mom, Daniella Isaza, explained. “Every time he gets out of the hospital, he’s always asking me if his police friends are going to come and say hi or anything, because they have done parades for him.”
Since Jeremiah dreams of becoming a police officer one day, the sheriff’s department teamed up with the Pediatric Cancer Foundation to make his dream a reality just a little early.
Jeremiah was invited to the sheriff’s office for a very special day. It started with Sheriff Rick Wells making the boy an official MCSO deputy. He even got his own badge!
Next, he met members of different units, including the K-9 unit. Jeremiah became a K-9 handler and spent some time getting to know the police dogs. He loved playing fetch and giving them treats.
The little guy even got a chance to check out the inside of a SWAT team’s BearCat armored vehicle. Each of the officers was incredibly kind and patient with Jeremiah, offering him a much-needed distraction.
As an added surprise, at the end of the day, the officers presented Jeremiah with his very own cruiser. Since he’s too young to drive a car, they gave him a personalized PAW Patrol bicycle.
Even though they’re busy, these compassionate officers went out of their way to make one sick little boy feel special. It’s so important for everyone to feel seen and loved. Hopefully, their affirmation was just what Jeremiah needs to get through this difficult time!
Share this story to thank the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office for honoring their youngest deputy.
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