© Tom Hawley/Monroe News / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
(New York, NY) – Twelve-year-old Wyatt Houppert — who is battling double kidney failure — was honored as “Sheriff for a Day” this week. The Long Island boy is prepping for transplant surgery. His doctors and loved ones hope it will save his life.
Houppert was born with one kidney that failed over time – requiring dialysis three times a week. His mother, Devan, shared his story on Facebook and family friend Dawn Rice volunteered to be tested as a donor – it turned out to be a perfect match.
Suffolk County Sheriff Errol Toulon Jr. swore him in as 50 officers cheered him on. Houppert has dreamed of becoming a first responder. He explored police vehicles, watched a K9 demonstration, and received a police escort home.
The boy’s surgery will be in New York City Monday.
