Six-Year-Old Cape Coral Police Officer Sworn In
Florida Boy Wears Badge with Pride
CAPE CORAL, Fla. (September 2020): Six-year-old Kayden Kafka’s dreams of becoming a police officer finally came true. He was sworn in by Chief David Newlan of the Cape Coral Police Department and presented as the newest member of their force - Honorary Officer Kayden. While surrounded by family, friends, and a sea of blue, he proudly wore his Cape Coral Police Officer uniform, raising his right hand in front of nearly 40 members of the Cape Coral Police as he humbly took the oath. “We all wear our badge with pride, and I know Kayden will as well,” said Chief Newlan. The uniting of the force kicked off Kayden’s dream coming true through Kids Wish Network, a children’s charity that grants wishes for kids with life-threatening illnesses.
Local dignitaries Cape Coral Mayor Joe Coviello and City Manager Rob Hernandez were also in attendance. “We only accept the best and the finest into our force and into our department,” said Mayor Coviello to Kayden. “We’re so excited to have you as part of the Cape Coral Police Department.” Panera Bread Manager, Neil Allen, joined Kids Wish Network in presenting the department with gifts and provided boxed breakfasts to all the officers in appreciation for their service. “Special thanks to Chief Newlan, Master Sergeant O’Grady, and all the brave officers of the Cape Coral Police Department, we can see why our kids wish to grow up and be just like you,” said Kids Wish Network Board President David Clevenger.
Kayden also toured police headquarters, spent time with the K-9 Unit, and had hands-on time inside a SWAT truck. All the excitement rubbed off on Kayden. “As soon as we got home he was trying to arrest people,” his mom Stephanie giggled. He suffers from mitochondria disease, causing him full-body pains, lethargy, fevers, and multiple hospitalizations, but he doesn’t let it deter him from his calling.
“It was such an honor having Officer Kayden Kafka get sworn in today,” said Master Sergeant Patrick O’Grady. “Working with organizations like Kids Wish Network who help kids live their dream is such an amazing experience. Officer Kafka has won the hearts and souls of the men and women of the Cape Coral Police Department.”
Kayden also has a love for camping and dreamed of seeing mountains, going hiking, and roasting marshmallows. Kids Wish Network surprised Kayden and his family with an RV rental for his ultimate adventure. Pilot Company generously donated a gift card to assist the family on their trip, and Gulf to Bay Gift Baskets provided a fabulous themed gift basket for Kayden to enjoy the full camping experience, he especially can’t wait to use all the fixings for smores. Kayden said, “I’m going to have so much fun!”
Many Thanks
Kids Wish Network would like to thank the following sponsors:
Kids Wish Network would like to thank the following sponsors:
Cape Coral Police Department
Pilot Company
Gulf to Bay Gift Baskets
Panera Bread (Cape Coral)
Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about the different programs.
Kids Wish Network has been making dreams come true for children since 1997. We are dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children experiencing life-altering situations. We started with the single purpose of granting wishes to children suffering from life-threatening conditions but have since created additional programs to benefit kids nationwide, including Hero of the Month, Project Toy Drop, Holiday of Hope Gift Banks, and A Child Forever Funeral Assistance.
