Teen battling cancer gets dream come true after dancing with cop
SANTA ANA, Calif. -- A 15-year-old girl who underwent heart transplant surgery and is now fighting cancer, celebrated her quinceanera filled with precious moments and a wish come true.
Alejandra Rodriguez told friends and family she dreamed of being a police officer and dreamed of dancing with one.
For her 15th birthday, Santa Ana police officers made a surprise appearance.
"We jumped at the chance. Absolutely it's something we could do," said Cmdr. Jose Gonzales of Santa Ana Police. "It's a small token, a small symbol we could show to her, to her family. You know, we are also members of this community and we're proud of the fact that she wanted to dance with a law enforcement officer. So, we didn't just bring one, we brought two."
Alejandra also shared a memorable dance with her dad who lost his legs to diabetes, but on her special day, wore prosthetics.
Everyone came together like never before and a strong bond was formed with Ave Castaneda, an important friend to the family.
"We were just outside waiting. You know, very long nights, several days and my husband passed away, and Alejandra got her heart," Castaneda said. "We kind of adopted her as our granddaughter."
Alejandra was full of gratitude.
"Yes, I now feel better," she said. "I'm always thanking Jesus for everything that he did to me and for helping me."
