[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 106 (Thursday, August 4, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: August 4, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                    TRIBUTE TO SANDY CHRISTOFFERSON

                                 ______


                          HON. JAMES T. WALSH

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, August 4, 1994

  Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my deepest concern 
and regard for Sandy Christofferson, a resident of Cortlandville, NY. 
Sandy has faced more adversity and pain in the last month than most of 
us experience in a lifetime.
  Last month, Sandy and her husband, Doug, were excitedly preparing for 
a vacation to celebrate their 29th anniversary, when Sandy fell ill and 
lost felling in her legs. Following a 911 call and a stay in the 
intensive care unit of a Syracuse hospital, Sandy was diagnosed as 
having an embolism, or blood clot. Though doctors are still unsure as 
to exactly what happened to Sandy, the blood clots had cut the supply 
of blood to her legs. Eventually, both her legs were amputated above 
the knee. While she must still go into the operating room every other 
day, the doctors have discovered that the embolisms are dissolving and 
Sandy may be able to leave the hospital later this month.
  Throughout this entire ordeal, Sandy and her family have maintained a 
positive outlook. Rather than despairing over what has been lost, Sandy 
rejoices in life and what she has: a loving husband, devoted children, 
and beautiful grandchildren.
  In addition, Sandy has the support and love of the Cortland 
community. She has spent years working in the area and on behalf of its 
residents. Most of Sandy's time and energy has always been focused on 
children, her own and the community's. She worked as a maternity ward 
nurse in the Cortland Memorial Hospital and as a nurse for McGraw 
Central School. She has been a 4-H volunteer for over 17 years, and was 
employed as a 4-H program assistant focusing on animal science for 6 
years. Recently she became a health services facilitator for the 
Cortland County Head Start Program. Sandy has dedicated an enormous 
amount of time over the years toward helping young people achieve 
success. I hope she will continue to laugh and cry along with the 
children she has always loved.
  Peers and coworkers have started a collection to help the 
Christoffersons defray medical expenses, and community members have 
donated wholeheartedly. Residents and visitors have signed two extra-
large cards expressing their prayers. It is very clear to all that 
Sandy is beloved in her community.
  Mr. Speaker, I am extremely proud to recognize Sandy Christofferson, 
her family, and the Cortland community. I hope my colleagues join me in 
praying for her continued recovery.

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