SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 253

WHEREAS, Abigail Rose Arias of Angleton has captured the hearts of countless people through the grace and courage she has demonstrated throughout her battle with cancer, and on February 25, 2019, the inspiring six-year-old is being sworn in at the State Capitol as an honorary member of the Texas Rangers; and

WHEREAS, Two years ago, Abigail was diagnosed with a rare form of pediatric cancer, which has required her to endure numerous surgeries and chemotherapy treatments; she has never wavered in her determination to conquer the disease, and she draws strength and support from her loving parents, Ilene and Ruben Arias, and her older brother, Ethan, as well as a multitude of other admirers; and

WHEREAS, Abigail has dreamed of becoming a police officer, and she enjoys contributing to the Freeport Police Department's Blue Santa Program by volunteering to hand out gifts to less privileged children during the holiday season; she was recently named an honorary member of the department after her story and her desire to serve her community caught the attention of Freeport Police Chief Ray Garivey, who enlisted the help of an organization in Pearland known as Cop Stop and partnered with other local leaders to make her dream a reality; and

WHEREAS, More than 200 family members, friends, and police officers attended the special ceremony on February 7, 2019, when Abigail was presented with a custom child-sized uniform, along with a badge, patches, and challenge coins befitting an officer of the law; the young girl took her oath as Rookie Officer No. 758 of the Freeport PD, making a vow to continue fighting the "bad guys," referring to her cancer; the emotional moment has since been featured by national news outlets, and a video of the ceremony has garnered millions of online views; she received another well-deserved recognition when February 7 was declared as "Abigail Rose Arias Day" by Freeport Mayor Troy Brimage; and

WHEREAS, Abigail Arias is a remarkable young Texan whose compassion, character, and bravery make her a beloved member of the community, and she remains in the thoughts and prayers of well-wishers across the nation as she continues to battle her disease; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 86th Legislature, hereby commend Abigail Rose Arias for her outstanding perseverance and warmly congratulate her on being named an honorary Texas Ranger; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be prepared for Abigail and her family as an expression of high regard by the Texas Senate.

Taylor

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 25, 2019.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate