The Louisiana State Legislature announced today that former Governor Kathleen Blanco is under hospice care.

The announcement was made by Senator Gerald Long who stated today before prayer that Blanco was now in hospice care.

“I think it’s biblical, and I think it’s practical that we pray for those that we know and love, that have served us together,” Long said.

Representative Sam Jones, a close friend of Blanco, spoke about her struggle with cancer. “She has fought it and fought it courageously and continues to do so,” Jones said.

Jones also spoke about Blanco’s work and dedication to Louisiana, asking for prayers as she continues to fight.

She was diagnosed with ocular melanoma in 2011, and the disease reappeared during a checkup in 2017.

Reporters at the Legislature say that George W. Bush called Blanco recently.

Former Gov. Edwin Edwards’ Facebook account posted the following today: