[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 33 (Friday, February 23, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E208]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING RYAN HOLETS

                                 ______
                                 

                      HON. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 23, 2018

  Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today 
to recognize Albuquerque Police Officer Ryan Holets and his wife 
Rebecca for their act of kindness and compassion in adopting a homeless 
mother's opioid-addicted newborn while also supporting her recovery.
  While on patrol, Ryan found a homeless woman with a companion, taking 
opioids in the form of heroin. He soon realized that the woman was 
pregnant. While talking to the woman about the harm that her actions 
would bring to her unborn child, she became emotional and told Ryan 
that she knew what she was doing was wrong.
  Immediately, Ryan knew it was an opportunity for him and his wife to 
adopt the baby and add a new member to their family. He showed the 
woman a photo of his wife, Rebecca, and their four children and offered 
to adopt the baby.
  When he shared the news with Rebecca, she immediately agreed that 
this was meant to happen and was a wonderful opportunity given to them 
by God. They did not have any hesitation to show compassion and love to 
this unborn child.
  On October 12, 2017, the baby was born and the Holets family named 
her Hope. Since Hope's birth, the Holets family has continued to give 
support to her parents and encouraged them to seek treatment at a 
rehabilitation facility in Florida.
  Ryan has become an incredible spokesperson for the opioid epidemic. 
His perspective as an officer who sees the effects of drug abuse and 
homelessness is key to understanding these issues and identifying 
solutions that are compassionate and effective.
  This heart-warming act of kindness was selfless and inspiring. I wish 
the very best to the Holets family and health to their new addition, 
Hope.

                          ____________________