[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 33 (Thursday, February 27, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E270]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE LIFE OF JASON BLANKENSHIP

                                 ______
                                 

                      HON. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 27, 2014

  Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today 
to honor the memory of Jason Blankenship, a constituent who was 
tragically taken from us last fall.
  A Texan by birth, Jason made Albuquerque his home. For over ten 
years, Jason gave back to the community as a staff member at the 
University of New Mexico, including several years in Human Resources 
and scientific research.
  A Ph.D. by education, Jason most recently put his talents to work at 
UNM's Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse and Addictions, where he 
served as research scientist and member of a team advancing the field 
of study of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. This was more than just a 
job to Jason. He was passionate about his research and truly believed 
in its ability to improve the lives of those suffering from these 
diseases.
  Even though he was engaged in such important work at UNM, Jason 
always found time to give back to the Albuquerque community, most 
notably through the Make-a-Wish Foundation where he took great pride in 
being a ``wish granter'' to children with tragic illnesses.
  He was loved by all for his wonderful personality, his 
thoughtfulness, his dedication, self-discipline and loyalty. Colleagues 
and fellow researchers remember Jason as kind, generous and highly 
skilled. Jason truly believed that the results of his research could 
positively impact the world around him. At just 43 years old, Jason was 
taken from us far too soon.
  Mr. Speaker, may the life of Dr. Jason Blankenship serve as an 
inspiration to us all as we work to improve not just ourselves but the 
community around us.

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