Grammy-nominated country star Jason Aldean brought more than music to Houston on August 15 during his sold-out Full Throttle Tour stop at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. Before taking the stage, Aldean partnered with Houston native Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel, members of the Houston Astros, and non-profit Heroes for Children for a day of activities designed to bring joy to children and families battling pediatric cancer.
The day included mini-golf at Puttshack, baseball experiences with the Astros, and a surprise $200,000 donation from Aldean and tour sponsor Patriot Mobile to Heroes for Children.
DJ Daniel’s Call for Help
The event came together after 13-year-old DJ Daniel, who has been battling a rare form of brain and spinal cancer, posted a video online earlier this year. In it, he asked:
“Hey, does anybody know Jason Aldean? Because we’re trying to do a country show down here to raise money for kids with cancer.”
Aldean saw the video while with his friend and fellow artist Darius Rucker, and the two responded together. Aldean promised to meet DJ and help him with his mission.
Baseball, Golf, and Big Surprises
Heroes for Children families spent the afternoon playing mini-golf with Aldean, DJ Daniel, and Houston Astros legends Roger Clemens and Jeff Bagwell. The Astros also invited families to watch batting practice, meet players, and attend a future game.
That evening, Aldean took the stage for his sold-out performance, but not before DJ Daniel joined him in front of the Houston crowd. DJ shared his story, spoke about Heroes for Children, and encouraged fans to get involved. He even delivered a few jokes that had the audience cheering.
Heroes for Children’s Mission
DJ Daniel’s story is one of resilience. Nearly eight years ago, doctors told him he had about five months to live. Since then, he has undergone more than a dozen surgeries while dedicating his time to raising awareness and funds for the fight against childhood cancer.
Heroes for Children, co-founded by Jenny Lawson and Larissa Linton after both women lost children to cancer, provides financial and emotional support to ensure that no family faces childhood cancer alone.
