The book’s main character is a small child named Trucker Dukes. Many people’s lives were profoundly affected by his determination to pursue his dream of becoming a firefighter, particularly those employed by the New York City Fire Department (FDNY).
Trucker went to see FDNY Captain Jim Grimser while getting medical care in New York. Neuroblastoma in stage four was found to be his cancer. This is a rare and deadly cancer. But Trucker had a deep love for firefighters, even though he was sick.
This respect came from his father, who was a firefighter in Maui, Hawaii. Because Trucker’s story moved Captain Grimser so much, he set up a ceremony to honor him as a New York City Fire Department firefighter.
Trucker’s father and his family flew to New York for the event. There, he went after his dream by saying the firefighter’s pledge in front of everyone.
His family decided to stop his treatments after that so they could spend more time together. They started the “Trucker Tough Challenge” to make memories that would last a lifetime. Watch video
A lot of people helped them on their mission to honor life, which took them to 22 different states. Folks were still moved by Trucker’s story after he passed away.
His name was added to official records and murals were painted in his honor by fire departments in New York and Hawaii. His family fought for less harsh treatments and worked to bring attention to pediatric cancer even though they were sad.
Trucker’s life will live on through memorial services, campaigns on social media, and the love of the people he touched.
