ENROLLED
2016 Regular Session
HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 85
BY REPRESENTATIVES BARRAS AND TERRY LANDRY
A RESOLUTION
To express the condolences of the House of Representatives upon the death of Markell
Gregoire and to designate Monday, May 2, 2016, as Markell Day at the state capitol.
WHEREAS, it was with deep regret and profound sorrow that the members of the
Louisiana House of Representatives learned of the death of Markell Gregoire; and
WHEREAS, in 2009, at the age of nine, Markell began to express a pain in his leg;
he was a physically active young boy who enjoyed playing football and basketball with his
siblings and friends; and
WHEREAS, Markell's mother, Monique, took him to the doctor and tests revealed
that he was suffering from osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer; and
WHEREAS, Markell's family turned to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital for his
treatment and care; and
WHEREAS, Markell underwent nine weeks of chemotherapy and a surgery to
remove the tumor with a limb salvaging procedure; after the surgery, Markell bravely
received twenty-six more weeks of chemotherapy, as well as physical therapy; and
WHEREAS, after his treatment ended, Markell returned home and resumed his
schooling; however, in June of 2012, the cancer had returned and doctors determined that
his left leg below his knee needed to be amputated; and
WHEREAS, in early 2013, Markell's upper left leg began to swell and hurt, and the
doctors at St. Jude confirmed that the cancer again returned; his treatment included a surgery
to remove the remaining bone and joint in his left leg, as well as radiation therapy and
chemotherapy; and
WHEREAS, Markell's courage throughout his surgeries and treatments is worthy of
the highest respect and admiration; during his time at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital,
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Markell proved himself to be outgoing and charming; he enjoyed basketball, spending time
with friends, watching sports, and playing video games; and
WHEREAS, in 2016, Markell lost his battle with cancer; he was admired by all
whose lives he touched and is greatly missed, but his memory will live in the mind and
hearts of all who knew and loved him.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the House of Representatives of the
Legislature of Louisiana does hereby express sincere and heartfelt condolences upon the
death of Markell Gregoire; does hereby extend the hope that his family and friends will be
granted the strength that they need to cope with their loss; and does hereby designate
Monday, May 2, 2016, as Markell Day at the state capitol.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a suitable copy of this Resolution be transmitted
to the family of Markell Gregoire.
SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
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