The Emotional Reason 1 Little Boy Was Just Adopted by the New York City Fire Department

Even though 3-year-old Trucker Dukes is fighting for his life, he'd prefer to focus on the brave men and women who are working to save others.

After first being diagnosed with Stage IV neuroblastoma at just 19 months old, the adorable little boy from Hawaii came to New York City with his mom for treatment. While the pair are on the East Coast, his father, Joshua Dukes, continues to work in Maui while Trucker's three older siblings attend school. Since Trucker's dad is a firefighter, this little boy is used to looking up to heroes and felt completely comfortable finding new friends while in New York among the men and women in uniform — just as soon as he had the chance.

The opportunity first presented itself when Trucker saw FDNY Captain Jim Grismer exit his fire truck while on a call at the Ronald McDonald House, where Trucker was staying. The spirited little boy eagerly approached and quickly made a lasting impression on the seasoned professional.

"I see this little boy excitedly walking towards me with his eyes aglow. I opened my arms and he basically climbed up and hugged me around the neck," Grismer said. "It was as if we've been friends and brothers for years."

Since then, not only have Grismer and his fellow firefighters welcomed Trucker and his mom to visit different firehouses as a glimmer of light during their time in New York, but they also hosted Trucker's birthday party. The most exciting event is still yet to come, as Trucker will be sworn into the New York City Fire Department as an honorary firefighter during an oath ceremony at the end of the month.

"This honor is so special to us because Trucker-Boy really thinks he's a fireman," Shauna Dukes, Trucker's mom, said in a Facebook post. "We are so blessed to have been adopted by the FDNY. Time and time again, I have watched big tough men fall in love with Trucker. It's really something special."