Young boy battling cancer becomes honorary firefighter

INDEPENDENCE, MO (KTRK) -- Gabriel Huffman has always wanted to be a firefighter. Today, that dream has come true.

The six-year-old boy was diagnosed with leukemia in October 2012, WDAF-TV reports. His parents say he's been fighting for his life ever since.

One thing that's kept him going strong: His dream of becoming a firefighter.

"I like being a fireman," Gabriel told WDAF-TV. "They honk their horns."

After hearing about his story, the Independence, Missouri Fire Department decided to make that dream a reality. They made him an honorary firefighter, complete with a firefighters uniform and boots.

"This kid has just really, really touched my heart," said firefighter Bob Frazier. "He's an amazing little boy, he has been through so much and I just want to do anything I can for him to make his life easier."

Gabriel got to pose for photos with other firefighters and even go for a ride in a firetruck.

His mother says Gabriel is almost done with his treatments, and he hopes to one day get strong enough to become a firefighter for real.

"He's a fighter, and a firefighter at heart and he's overcoming day by day," said Deborah Huffman.