[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 57 (Tuesday, May 6, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S4034]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  TRIBUTE TO JOSHUA GAGNON FOR BEING NEW HAMPSHIRE'S CHAMPION ACROSS 
                                AMERICA

 Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay 
tribute to 10-year-old Joshua Gagnon from Merrimack, NH, for being 
chosen the New Hampshire champion by the Champions Across America 
Program of the Children's Miracle Network.
  These champions are children who have triumphed over life-threatening 
health problems. Joshua, along with champions from other States, will 
represent the 7 million children treated at children's hospitals each 
year.
  Joshua was only 3 years old when his family discovered his illness. 
An MRI revealed that he suffered from the Dandy Walker syndrome, which 
required an extensive shunt that extended from his brain to his 
stomach. In the past 7 years the shunt, which is susceptible to 
clogging, has required three replacements.
  Another surgery Joshua had undergone was to correct a condition known 
as Streeter's dysplasia. The Genesis fund, which funds the National 
Birth Defects Center, made it possible for Joshua's webbed fingers and 
toes to be reshaped by a plastic/reconstructive surgeon. Even though he 
only has use of his ring finger and his pinky finger on his right hand, 
Joshua writes very well and loves to assemble model airplanes and cars.
  Like any other boy his age, Joshua has many hobbies, such as reading, 
riding his mountain bike and playing basketball. He is very inquisitive 
and his sense of humor gives his mother many reasons to laugh.
  Mr. President, I want to call attention to the uniqueness of 
children's health care and the importance of non-profit hospitals for 
children. Joshua is an inspiring example for children and their 
families to fight the battle and beat the odds. He and the other 
champions show children in New Hampshire and across the Nation how to 
pursue a happy life, despite their illness. I am proud to represent 
Joshua in the U.S. Senate.

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