A six-year-old boy who dreamed of one day joining his local police force has tragically passed away as a result of his terminal brain illness.
Travis Heery was diagnosed with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma - an incurable and inoperable tumor of the brain stem - back in December of 2019.
After receiving 30 radiation treatments, Travis regained full motion back and for two blissful months - allowing the youngster to be a normal six-year-old boy once again.
Per the Daily Mail, it was Travis' dream to become a police officer in Queensland, and ever morning he would wake up, put his police cap on, and tell his mother: "I'm going to be a policeman."
And upon hearing about the young boy's diagnosis, officials from the Queensland Police Service formally inducted Travis as a 'Special Junior Constable' at a ceremony on July 3 at the Police Mounted Unit in Moggill - finally fulfilling his dream of becoming a QPS officer.
At the ceremony, Acting Sergeant Bagnall said: "In my job as a crime prevention officer, we do public and community engagement work, but I haven’t had a chance to do something as wonderful as this."
But sadly, on August 16, Travis passed away.
Acting Sergeant Paul Bagnall said the following kind words in memory of Travis:
"For those who knew or had any contact with Travis, you would know what an amazing, beautiful, and courageous young man he was," he wrote.
"Travis’ courage was beyond measure. He took every blow with a great attitude and endured more than most adults would ever encounter.
"He was the most exceptional boy and had a heart of gold, with the soul of an angel."
Bagnall continued: "To Travis’ family – Kaye, Adam, Zane, and Bella, we know that no words could ever comfort you at the loss of your beautiful son and beloved big brother, but please know that you all are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers.
"Travis was one of us, he was part of our QPS brotherhood and sisterhood. He was our hero and most of all, we are so honored and privileged to call him our little brother.
"Rest in peace Travis, our little brother, and hero, through adversity you lived with the utmost courage and honor."
Travis passed away with his parents and family at his bedside. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this time.
