[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 170 (Tuesday, October 31, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2075-E2076]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   MAKING CHILDREN'S DREAMS COME TRUE

                                 ______


                            HON. TIM ROEMER

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 31, 1995

  Mr. ROEMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak out on behalf of a 
truly wonderful organization, the Children's Wish Foundation 
International. I cannot think of a cause more noble than the desire to 
grant a wish to a fatally ill child. We all look back on our childhood, 
reminiscing over happy, sad, and exciting events that helped shape the 
individuals we are today.
  There are thousands of children who never reach their 18th birthday; 
they never have the opportunity to look back on their childhood. Often 
times their only memories are of chemotherapy, doctor visits, and 
hospital stays. The Children's Wish Foundation gives these children 
something to look forward to, a dream come true, a special event or 
gift to brighten their days.
  The tragic loss of our innocent youth is not restricted to the United 
States alone. Many countries around the globe are coping with the loss 
of their children. The Children's Wish Foundation would like to 
recognize the courage of these young children and the volunteers who 
help make their dreams come true by designating November 26 to December 
2 as International Children's Wish Week.
  Mr. Speaker, I encourage this body to provide its full support for 
this endeavor. It is unfortunate to lose a life at such a young age, 
one full of promise and potential; but even sadder when an opportunity 
to bring a smile and a special memory to one of these children is 
missed.
  I am blessed with two healthy boys. Not all parents are so fortunate. 
I know that if there was one specific wish my child dreamed of, I would 
do everything in my power to make sure that wish came true. The 
Children's Wish Foundation International assists parents in fulfilling 
a dream, no matter how large or small, from buying pink hair ribbons 
for a little girl who is waiting for her hair to grow back after 
chemotherapy or sending a little boy to Disney Land to meet Mickey 
Mouse.
  I would like to commend the Children's Wish Foundation on its 
heartwarming work on behalf of those children and families who need it 

[[Page E2076]]
most. I am certain that the memories made through the granting of each 
child's unique wish will be ones the families hold close to their 
hearts for the rest of their lives.

                          ____________________