83R24480 BK-D

By: Guerra H.R. No. 1928

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, Fourteen-year-old Nicholas Tijerina of Edinburg has faced extraordinary challenges since being injured in a tragic accident on December 12, 2011, and his strength and perseverance have set an outstanding example for all; and

WHEREAS, On that day, Nicholas was trying out for the basketball team at Harwell Middle School, where he was a seventh-grader; attempting a lay-up, he was struck in the chest by a bullet that seemed to come out of nowhere; he suffered severe trauma, including damage to his spinal cord that left him paralyzed from the waist down; and

WHEREAS, Confined to a hospital bed for more than a month, Nicholas endured numerous surgeries before he was well enough to begin rehabilitation; he has since undergone intensive physical therapy, and despite facing setbacks, he has worked to improve his overall mobility and has at times had the strength to perform push-ups; and

WHEREAS, Affectionately known as "Nicko," this courageous Texan is blessed with a loving and supportive family that includes his parents, Donna and Misael Tijerina, and his sister, Lauren Tijerina; he and his mother have relocated to the Houston area for his treatment, and he is currently attending Humble Middle School; just like his peers, he is eagerly anticipating learning to drive; and

WHEREAS, The hardest experiences in life are what reveal one's true character, and the resilience and optimism that Nicholas Tijerina has demonstrated throughout his ordeal testify to the inspiring and admirable young man that he is; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature hereby commend Nicholas Tijerina for his determination to overcome a terrible event and extend to him sincere best wishes for the future; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mr. Tijerina as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.