White House Posts Message Following DJ Daniel’s Update
Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel, the young Texan who became a national symbol of bravery and hope after being honored by President Donald Trump, is once again facing a daunting medical challenge. The teen, who captured America’s heart during Trump’s joint address to Congress, has been diagnosed with three new tumors, his father revealed this week.
First Lady Melania Trump & Agent DJ Daniel 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/6nKB9xG9Yp
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) March 11, 2025
DJ’s battle with brain cancer began at the tender age of six. Since then, he has undergone more than a dozen surgeries and countless treatments. Yet through it all, he’s stood tall—with a smile on his face, a badge on his chest, and an indomitable spirit that refuses to be defined by illness.
DJ wasn’t just a child fighting cancer—he became a national figure. Honored as an honorary Secret Service agent and sworn into more than 1,350 law enforcement agencies across the country, DJ was more than a symbol—he was a spark of resilience for thousands of children facing similar battles.
On Friday, the Trump White House shared their support in a post on X, writing:
“We’re lifting up Agent DJ Daniel in prayer after his dad, Theodis, shared that DJ is now facing three new tumors. DJ is one of the strongest, bravest young men—and has now been sworn into 1,351 law enforcement agencies across the country. Agent Daniel, you’re a true legend.”
Alongside the post were images of DJ beaming with President Trump and First Lady Melania—moments etched into the memory of a nation that watched his journey unfold.
DJ’s father, Theodis Daniel, spoke candidly to FOX 7 Austin about the emotional weight of hearing that his son is facing new tumors. “There isn’t a class that can teach you how to deal with it,” he said. “You’re hearing that your child has a nasty disease.” Despite the grim diagnosis, he noted DJ’s enduring positivity and mischievous humor.
We’re lifting up Agent DJ Daniel in prayer after his dad, Theodis, shared that DJ is now facing three new tumors.
DJ is one of the strongest, bravest young men—and has now been sworn into 1,351 law enforcement agencies across the country.
Agent Daniel, you’re a true legend. 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/UH9sCOeWvE
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) May 30, 2025
One of DJ’s most memorable quips? “He’s ‘coming after you’ if he sees anyone being mean to President Trump,” Theodis laughed. “I never know what’s going to come out of his mouth—it makes me nervous half the time, because he has jokes.”
DJ has also tried experimental medicine, and according to his father, continues to radiate joy and life.