[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 108 (Monday, July 28, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1537]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       HONORING JEAN WILLIAMSON'S DEDICATION TO VOLUNTEER NURSING

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHAEL BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 28, 1997

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable 
woman. Jean Williamson has been a nurse at the Clearwater Free Clinic 
in Clearwater, FL, for 5 years. The clinic provides critical health 
services to many of my constituents in the ninth congressional district 
who otherwise would be unable to afford them. In fact, the clinic was 
able to treat over 7,000 patients last year alone--and that number is 
expected to rise this year.
  In 1996, Jean earned the title ``Volunteer of the Year,'' for her 
tireless efforts on behalf of the patients she serves. Perhaps not 
surprisingly, she is again likely to receive this accolade.
  This year, Jean gave up her summer to serve as the interim executive 
director of the clinic. She was compelled to do so after the previous 
director resigned to take a national office. This selfless act has 
permitted the clinic's board to carefully search for the right 
replacement and has made the transition period far smoother than it 
otherwise would have been.
  However, I believe the greatest tributes come not from the words of 
outsiders, but from those who work closely with Jean. One of her 
colleagues described her as, ``one of the most dedicated and 
conscientious volunteers anywhere . . . she has set an example few can 
follow.'' It was because of people like Jean that Congress recently 
passed H.R. 911, legislation to protect volunteers from frivolous 
lawsuits which arise out of their service. I am pleased to have been a 
cosponsor of this important bill to protect people like the volunteers 
of the Clearwater Free Clinic.
  Mr. Speaker, in an age when volunteerism has declined, I would like 
very much to congratulate Jean for her unselfish and outstanding work 
at the Clearwater Free Clinic. She serves as a shining example for 
other volunteers around the country. I would ask that our colleagues 
join me in wishing her continued success with her work at the clinic 
and, indeed, with all of her future endeavors.

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