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Eric Piburn, the 'Kindness Warrior,' graduates with SPC Police Academy

Even in the face of adversity, this kid's kindness has no bounds.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Every time we visit Eric Piburn, he fills us with joy.

By just meeting him, you wouldn't know that the 12-year-old is in need of a life-saving heart and double-lung transplant.

He's a warrior -- and on Tuesday, he became an honorary member of the St. Petersburg College Police Academy. Earlier this year, Piburn invited the cadets to his birthday party at Old McMicky's Farm.

Piburn was recognized for his mission to spread kindness. Eric says he plans to do that by starting small with baby steps. 

"Keep the world a better place by cleaning up after themselves. Don’t leave the people in the (hot) cars. Don’t post bad things on the internet. And make sure that you do not throw garbage with recycles and recycles with garbage," Piburn said. 

"And no bullying."

Nightside Photojournalist Angela Clooney was there for graduation day:

"If only recruits had his strength and fortitude, we’d be alright in the police community," said Joe Saponare, the Public Safety Department coordinator at the college.

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