Toulon Names Eastport Cancer Survivor, 12, 'Sheriff For A Day'

EASTPORT, NY — A 12-year-old Eastport boy who survived cancer will soon be named "Suffolk County Sheriff For A Day."

Douglas Grimmett, from Eastport, who is also the son of New York Police Department Scuba Sergeant Adam Grimmett, will become “Suffolk County Sheriff For A Day” in a ceremony with Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr.

The day will have special meaning for Toulon, who is also a two-time cancer survivor. The event will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 24, beginning at 11 a.m., at the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office, located at 100 Center Drive in Riverhead.

Douglas will participate in a series of exciting and fun activities with members of the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office, including a ride along in a patrol car, a visit in the land/sea marine unit and a walk around with the K-9 unit. Douglas and his 10-year-old brother, Ben, will also receive shirts and honorary badges for the occasion, Toulon said.

Douglas was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, or ALL, in May, 2013 and underwent successful chemotherapy treatment. His last chemotherapy was in 2016 and he has been deemed “cancer free” by doctors, Toulon said.

The "dream-come-true experience" comes during Blood Cancer Awareness Month, which takes place in September, with the help of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in Melville as part of their “Random Acts of Light” Program, Toulon said.

Douglas was chosen as the annual Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s “Boy of the Year” in 2015, which honors children who have inspired others with their courage.

Douglas and his family will also participate in the annual LLS “Light The Night” walk in October in Eisenhower Park.