A Chinese traffic police unit assisted an eight-year-old boy battling a rare form of cancer, enabling him to live out his dream of being a traffic officer for a day on his birthday. This heartwarming gesture garnered significant praise and warmth from internet users.
On March 10, the traffic police detachment of Jinan city in East China’s Shandong province fulfilled the dream of Daoming, a courageous young boy who has been valiantly fighting rhabdomyosarcoma for four years.
Rhabdomyosarcoma is a form of soft tissue sarcoma that has impacted both Daoming's brain and nasal area, potentially threatening his eyesight.
Are you looking for insights into the most significant issues and developments globally? Find your answers here. SCMP Knowledge Our latest platform features handpicked content including explainers, FAQs, analyses, and infographics, all presented by our acclaimed team.
His mother, Tan Yongfang, mentioned that he went through 18 chemotherapy sessions, 33 radiation therapies, and two operations, but despite this, he stayed resolute and mindful of her emotions during his difficult ordeal.
In February, Daoming’s cancer returned after several months without the disease. With just 10,000 yuan (approximately US$1,400) saved up, Tan journeyed from their residence in southwest China’s Chongqing province to Jinan in hopes of finding superior healthcare for her child.
Prior to Daoming’s eighth birthday on March 9, Tan messaged the Jinan traffic police’s social media page, asking if her boy—who aspired to be a traffic officer—could experience riding in one of their vehicles or even directing traffic himself.
Tan mentioned that Daoming was so captivated by traffic policemen that he couldn't help but focus on them every time he saw them on the street.
To her surprise, the team quickly replied to her message the next day, and on March 10, they showed up outside their apartment.
Daoming and Tan were taken to the police station, where a group of motorcycle officers enthusiastically came in to greet him.
Daoming got a snack bouquet as his birthday present and also had the opportunity to hop onto a traffic policeman’s motorbike along with the newest model of their vehicles. Furthermore, one of the officers instructed him on using hand and arm gestures for managing traffic.
In conclusion, they gave him a traffic cop hat along with a teddy bear wearing a safety jacket and a police cap. One of the officers also extended an offer for a hug and assured him that they would await his becoming a traffic policeman down the line.
Tan was deeply touched and shed tears as she conveyed her appreciation for the affection demonstrated by the Jinan traffic police and the welcoming atmosphere of the city.
Eleven years back, Tan learned she had multiple sclerosis, a long-term condition impacting the brain and spinal cord. Following this, when Daoming received his cancer diagnosis, Tan decided to stop her own medical treatments.
They depended on contributions from generous people and the 3,000-yuan (US$410) monthly income of Daoming’s stepfather for sustenance.
In order to boost her earnings, Tan handled a social media profile boasting 13,000 followers, through which she offered budget-friendly items for sale.
Following the release of endearing tales by the Jinan traffic police, numerous patrons started flocking to her page to buy her products and make contributions.
Tan mentioned that she contacted the authorities with the aim of realizing her son's aspiration before his health declined, hoping "to ensure he has no regrets in his life."
Liu Jingwei, who holds the rank of captain within the brigade, voiced his hope that this distinctive day would offer "unforgettable recollections and inspiration to combat the illness."
"One online commentator expressed being deeply touched to the point of tears. They felt such warmth from this act of kindness. Imagine how wonderful our world could be if people were kinder to one another," they noted.
"Wish you all the best, young lad! Hope you conquer this illness swiftly," remarked another individual.
More Articles from SCMP
Hong Kong Disneyland plans to distribute 200,000 tickets to charitable organizations and non-governmental agencies.
Why China requires 'as many allies as possible' to succeed in its competition with the U.S.
Philippines' top military officer cautions forces to 'begin planning' amid potential Taiwan strife
'Millions of drivers require education' following deadly Xiaomi accident, experts claim
The article initially appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), which serves as the premier source for news coverage of China and Asia.
Copyright © 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.