An eight-year- old California boy suffering from fatal disease with only days to live becomes an Honorary Marine

An 8-year-old boy is now a member of the few, the proud thanks to a successful online campaign and the dedication of his parents.

Wyatt Gillette of Orange, Calif., suffers from Aicardi-Goutierres Syndrome Type 1, causing him to experience seizures and complete kidney failure. He has to take 15 medications a day and his family says he will soon be heading to hospice, as he is not to expected to survive the next two weeks.

"He's the toughest kid I've ever met," said his father, Jeremiah, a Marine drill instructor. "He's the toughest person I've ever met."

Jeremiah Gillette holding his son, Wyatt. He began to suspect his son was experiencing health problems two weeks after returning from Iraq. 

Wyatt's mother, Felishia, confirmed her son's unending positive attitude despite everything he's been through, telling KABC, "He loves his bike, he loves the sounds of kisses, he loves doing crafts."

When Wyatt's parents posted online about his fatal condition that keeps him from receiving a kidney transplant, a petition went up on Change.org to have the young child declared an Honorary Marine.

Of his son, Jeremiah Gillette told KABC, "He's taught me love. He's taught me to see the good in people.”(KABC-TV)

Announcing the Marine Corp's expedited decision to honor his child, Jeremiah Gillette said they would soon be holding a ceremony to celebrate his son's recognition.

"Felishia, myself and especially Wyatt want to thank you all so much," he posted on Facebook. "This is such a special thing and I'm so happy that he will receive the title."

Less than 100 people have received the honor, the ranks including a WWII veteran who spent 40 years making shadow boxes for members of the military and Chuck Norris.