[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 142 (Saturday, October 10, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2015]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO VIRGINIA HAYES

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. LOIS CAPPS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 9, 1998

  Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Virginia 
Hayes of Oceano, California. Stricken with Parkinson's disease, 
Virginia never denied the reality of her diagnosis, living her life 
with courage and facing her death with dignity; and in so doing truly 
symbolized the silent struggle of every person afflicted with 
Parkinson's.
  There are at least one million Americans living with Parkinson's, a 
chronic neurological disorder affecting muscle movement. Its relentless 
progression systematically robs its victims of every aspect of their 
lives--a process that dramatically impacts the lives of spouses, 
families and other loved ones.
  While it's commonly accepted that Parkinson's disease is not fatal, 
no one can tell that to the Hayes family. To the end, Virginia's spirit 
was strong and brave, but after 23 years of fighting, her otherwise 
healthy body was exhausted and eventually overcome, her struggle to 
live defeated by the ravages of Parkinson's.
  Just a few months before her death, Virginia took part in the 
production of an advocacy video designed to educate about Parkinson's 
disease and promote increased research funding. Titled ``The Faces of 
Parkinson's,'' the video is a dramatic presentation of Parkinson's 
effect on individuals and their families. With husband Paul at her 
side, Virginia allowed us an unflinching look at how Parkinson's 
devastated her independence and her life. Through her courage, she has 
left a legacy which serves to inform and inspire us all, and hopefully 
will in some way lessen the burden on those who share her struggle.
  Undoubtedly, this public contribution is but one small piece of the 
legacy Virginia has left her family and friends--those who stood by her 
throughout her battle with Parkinson's, as well as other circumstances 
of life that challenge and reward us all. While Parkinson's disease 
took her life, it clearly did not define it. The strength it takes to 
face adversity with resolve and wit is found deep inside. Virginia 
found and nurtured that place inside herself and understood that love 
is stronger than death.
  I am honored to pay tribute to Virginia Hayes, and to offer our 
sincerest condolences and best wishes to her husband and her entire 
family.

                          ____________________