Correctional Officer John Chelette of FCC Pollock in Louisiana was first referred to the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation’s Catastrophic Assistance Program in April of 2003.  At that time, Correctional Officer Chelette’s wife, Cecile, was diagnosed with fibromyalgia and multiple sclerosis.  The family traveled 500 miles for treatment.  That year saw Cecile hospitalized as a result of her condition.

The following February, Correctional Officer Chelette was diagnosed with lung disease and an autoimmune deficiency. He had to travel 100 miles round trip for treatment weekly.

By April of 2005, Cecile’s multiple sclerosis was worsening. She had gone blind in one eye.

In February of 2008, Cecile had 4 more lesions on her brain and spine for a total of 22 between her brain, spine, and neck. She was spending a lot of time at the hospital. At the same time, their son Kolbie, was diagnosed with nerve damage and under medical care.

Cecile was completely blind and had nearly 50 lesions on her brain, spine, and neck by May of 2011. The medical travel expenses were extensive.

December of 2016, brought juvenile rheumatoid arthritis to their other son, Quinton. They had to travel 225 miles away for multiple overnight trips to seek help and treatment for Quinton.

Three years later, in November of 2019, Correctional Officer Chelette began suffering from serious health complications. He was hospitalized many times over the summer as they tried to find a cause for the inflamed esophagus and being malnourished.

The Chelette family suffered a house fire in March of 2020 and lost everything. At the same time, Correctional Officer Chelette was diagnosed with cancer. He traveled to Houston, Texas regularly for treatment.

On July 16, 2024, Cecile Chelette passed away from surgical complications.

Please join us in keeping the Chelette family in your thoughts and prayers.