WINDERMERE, FLA -- It's a gift to find joy in the little things. 

Daniel Roberts, through everything, wears a smile than can light up a room. It's the second thing you notice about him. 

“I feel like I’m wearing a bounce castle on my foot," Daniel says walking through his yard in his brand new running blade. The 14-year old is still getting used to it. 

“It feels awesome being able to run with this because with the other foot I wasn’t able to run but now that I got the blade I can get bounce and run properly.” 

The running blade is used for most physical activity. That bright smile is passed down from his mother who wears it proudly after getting through dark times. 

“As a parent, you don’t wish this upon a child nor think it’s going to happen to your kid," said Catherine Inman. "When it does you handle it as best as you can and be their biggest cheerleader.”

Four years ago, Daniel was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma in his right leg. Then nine-years old, he found himself at a crossroads. 

“When I look down I think of all the decision that I’ve made. Choosing to keep the leg and not get rid of it.”

Daniel chose to have the top part of his right leg amputed. Doctors salvaged the rest of his limb. Throught a difficult procedure, Daniel's foot was turned around acting as he knee. He still wears a prosthetic for functionality. 

Daniel also made another decision; never give up. Immediately he began training and retooling his body. 

“That was the hardest year of my life and nothing will ever compare to that.”

Nothing stopped him from doing what most people thought was unthinkable for someone missing part of their leg. Two years after his diagnosis, Daniel decided to run the famed Star Wars 5K for Disney's Marathon Weekend. 

"Thank goodness it was raining because I could pass my face being wet that way instead of crying the whole time," Catherine said. 

It was a beautiful moment. Daniel, Catherine, little sister Jessica, his physical therapist, Trevor, highlighted a large group that ran the race together with chants of "DJ" echoing throughout the parks. 

A cool moment that even the supreme leader of the First Order can appreciate. 

"DJ I read your story and I was inspired by it. You’re the definition of perseverance. Keep going. Your friend on the dark side, Adam.” It's the note that is attached to a signed Kylo Ren action figure from actor, Adam Driver. 

“This is one of the few things that makes me cry with happiness," Daniel said. 

A few short years later sitting on the front porch, Daniel and his family reminisce about the day.

Rewatching the videos, Daniel's trademarke grin is larger than ever. 

"Wow my voice got a lot deeper," he laughs. 

It's a family reliving the highs and lows of the last few years together. All of them do it with a smile. 

This moment may seem like a little thing but in the big picture it's an example of how to live. 

“It’s me celebrating everything that’s past, present and future.”

“It taught us to live everyday to the fullest because tomorrow is not promised at all.”

Daniel says he is enjoying his time at Windermere High School. He plans to tryout for the golf team next year.