[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 106 (Thursday, July 17, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1496]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             MS. WHEELCHAIR FLORIDA 2003--COURTNEY SANTIAGO

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 16, 2003

  Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a 
young woman from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Courtney Santiago. Ms. 
Santiago is 23 years old and is Ms. Wheelchair Florida 2003.
  Courtney suffers with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome, which 
rendered her a semi-quadriplegic at the age of 15. Reflex Sympathetic 
Dystrophy Syndrome is a chronic condition characterized by severe 
burning pain and pathological changes in bone and skin. It is unique, 
in that it simultaneously affects the nerves, skin, muscles, blood 
vessels and bones. Its cause is unknown and affects nearly 1.5 million 
persons in the U.S.
  Despite what would be viewed by most as a limitation, she is a 
stellar student with a 4.0 grade point average and enjoys swimming, 
racing and flying. Courtney endeavors to become a doctor and later this 
month Ms. Wheelchair America.
  Courtney has transcended the definition of disabled and speaks on 
behalf of the ``able--disabled'' everywhere.
  I urge the Members of this great body to join by saluting this truly 
spirited young woman.

                          ____________________