[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 73 (Thursday, June 6, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E965]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

[[Page E965]]



                      PAYING TRIBUTE TO RHONDA LEE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 5, 2002

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker it a great honor to pay tribute to Rhonda 
Lee, a woman who embodies the spirit of the mountains of Colorado. 
Rhonda Lee worked for years in the Eagle County Hospital as a hospice 
nurse helping people and their families to cope with illnesses. Rhonda 
Lee is now coping with her own disease, thyroid cancer, and her whole 
community has come out to help her as she has help some many of them. 
In the face of enormous odds, Rhonda has shown courage and strength 
with the help of her community.
  Rhonda made many sacrifices for her patients as a hospice nurse, 
often traveling over 2,000 miles in a month. Rhonda gladly gave her 
time and energy for many years but eleven years ago, someone came into 
Rhonda's life that needed more of her attention--her daughter. After 
the birth of her daughter, Matyson, Rhonda became a teacher in Special 
Education. Rhonda has given countless hours to the Special Education 
Program and students of Gypsum Creek Elementary School but she says 
that the rewards of her job are endless. When Rhonda learned of her 
disease she told her students immediately. The way that she has bravely 
faced her disease is an example to her student of how to handle their 
own disabilities.
  When her community heard of Rhonda's disease, they rallied together 
to help this valued member of their area. Almost $4,000.00 has been 
raised in Rhonda's name through dances and spaghetti dinners. The Vail 
Valley Charitable Fund has also helped Rhonda to get through this 
difficult time. Despite Rhonda's dire challenge, she faces each day 
with optimism. Rhonda has good reason to look forward to each day in 
the support of her children Scott, Chad, Tanner, and Matyson--who she 
calls her best friend.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege today to recognize the courage and 
service of Rhonda Lee. Her hard work and dedication to her community 
are an example to us all. The people of Eagle and Gypsum and the 
surrounding communities have certainly recognized this and have 
responded when Rhonda needed their support. Rhonda, you have my 
admiration and support in your courageous battle against cancer.

                          ____________________