MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A 6-year-old Milwaukee boy battling a rare form of cancer got the surprise of a lifetime today, thanks to the Milwaukee Police Association (MPA).

The MPA turned their headquarters into a celebration for one very special “public-safety superfan.” Leo arrived at the MPA headquarters as officers lined the halls and welcomed him inside. The visit was organized by the MPA to give Leo a day full of smiles and memorable moments.

Leo is fighting Rhabdomyosarcoma, or RMS, a rare cancer that forms in muscle tissue. Only a small number of children in the U.S. receive an RMS diagnosis each year.

“Put more awareness on childhood cancer because we don’t hear much about it,” said Leo’s mom, Arely Peraz. She hopes days like this will bring more awareness to children with cancer. 

Leo’s family says his interest in police work has remained strong throughout his treatment. Officers gave him police gear, toys and Paw Patrol items before inviting him to raise his right hand and take the oath of office, making him an honorary Milwaukee Police Officer.

“It was very hard not to cry, I’ll tell you that. Everyone here that I know of is a parent. It puts things into perspective,” said Assistant Chief Nicole Waldner.

Officer Ben Ade added, “It just warms my heart seeing the smiles on his face and knowing how much it probably means to him. Now he’s a police officer with us. That’s incredible.”

Today’s visit gave Leo time to meet the officers he follows and take part in the work he admires.