[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 137 (Thursday, October 17, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1910]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO FRANCIE SMILES

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 16, 2002

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I recognize 
Francie Smiles of Montrose, Colorado for the selfless contributions she 
has made for breast cancer awareness. Francie, a breast cancer 
survivor, has tirelessly dedicated her time and energy toward helping 
others in her community inflicted with the illness. Today, I would like 
to pay tribute to Francie for the commitment and compassion she has 
given to such a worthwhile endeavor.
  Francie has been a member of the Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support 
group since her diagnosis in 1997. The group was formed ten years ago 
to provide a support network for women in Southwestern Colorado who are 
living with the disease. Now that Francie's cancer has gone into 
remission, she has continued to remain active within the group, helping 
to raise money and provide emotional support for other breast cancer 
patients.
  Every year, the Bosom Buddies Support Group holds their annual walk/
run fundraiser and Francie is one of the events' chief promoters. In 
2001, 341 people attended the fundraiser, helping to raise over 11,000 
dollars for 68 women in need of medical and financial assistance. 
Hoping to build on last year's success, Francie expects to register 375 
people this year.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great admiration that I recognize Francie 
Smiles before this body of Congress and this nation for all of her 
efforts in the fight against breast cancer. Francie has redirected the 
misfortune of her own diagnosis of breast cancer in a positive 
direction and used it to raise money and awareness to help others to 
overcome the disease. I commend Francie on her efforts and wish her the 
best in all of her future endeavors.

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