[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 164 (Thursday, November 18, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2443]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   SENSE OF HOUSE REGARDING DIABETES

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                               speech of

                         HON. EARL F. HILLIARD

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 16, 1999

  Mr. HILLIARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call for increased 
congressional spending to continue the research now progressing to seek 
a cure for diabetes. This devastating disease affects every family in 
America--my own brother is a victim of diabetes. The results of the 
disease are too numerous to count, but include blindness, loss of 
limbs, even shock resulting at times in death. At this time in our 
history, the incidence of diabetes in our population appears to be 
increasing.
  We have made many strides in the treatment of diabetes, but much more 
needs to be done. It is very possible that in the near future we will 
be able to regenerate damaged beta cells in the pancreas, the cells 
which normally produce insulin. Alternatively, we may soon be able to 
generate new beta cells; in either case, it appears we will actually be 
able to cure the disease.
  At this point in the process, we need to make an absolute commitment 
to this struggle to end this devastating disease. I commit myself and 
my vote to increasing spending on diabetes to an amount which will be 
sufficient for our scientists to accomplish this high goal.

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