Louisiana State Police Support Bossier Deputy Battling Cancer

Louisiana State Police troopers have made a donation on behalf of a Bossier sheriff's deputy who's been battling cancer.

Troop G has presented a $500 check to Sheriff Julian Whittington to help 33-year-old Sgt. Barrett Lovell, who was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in October 2014. He has undergone numerous chemotherapy treatments and multiple blood transfusions.

On March 2, Barrett had a core blood transplant at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, where he'll continue to receive treatment for at least the next three months.

Louisiana State Troopers Association Troop G Vice President J.C. Kelly, a long-time friend of Barrett's, presented the check along with LSTA Troop G President Hack Willis and Lt. Steve Robinson.

"He has been a friend to the Louisiana State Police, and he has been a friend to me," said Trooper Kelly in a BSO news release. "We wanted to do something tangible to help offset his fuel costs, medical bills and any other expenses."

Kelly attended Benton High School while Barrett went to Airline, and the two became friends as teenagers through school acquaintances. They both chose law enforcement careers and Kelly says he's ready to see Barrett back at work at Corrections and once again working out in the gym.

"Barrett needs all the encouragement and prayers he can get, and I can assure you this donation by the Louisiana State Police will be a blessing and boost for him," said Sheriff Whittington. "We look forward to having Barrett back in his place here at the Bossier Sheriff's Office, and donations like this from these troopers and others, as well as prayers and support, will provide Barrett the encouragement he needs to fight cancer and win."

Thanks to BSO Lt. Bill Davis for sending this story.