[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 51 (Tuesday, April 20, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E572]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZATION OF THE YOUNG ONSET PARKINSON'S ASSOCIATION AND THE 
                   ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF MS. GINA REILLY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 20, 2004

  Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I have the 
opportunity to recognize the outstanding achievements of Ms. Gina 
Reilly and the Young Onset Parkinson's Association (YOPA). The YOPA is 
dedicated to providing support as well as raising public awareness 
about Parkinson's disease. Ms. Reilly is one of many volunteers whose 
tireless efforts help to make the foundation a success.
  Parkinson's disease is a debilitating disease that affects 4 in every 
1,000 Americans, and while the disease is more prominent in older 
people, five to ten percent of all Parkinson's cases are early-onset. 
Parkinson's has no known origin or method of prevention; but with the 
assistance of organizations like the YOPA and the American Parkinson's 
Disease Association, treatments and a cure are coming closer to 
becoming a reality.
  The YOPA's mission is to raise public awareness and to offer support 
for those living with early-onset Parkinson's disease. In addition, the 
association has coordinated with local, regional and national 
Parkinson's organizations in fundraising efforts for Parkinson's 
research. Ms. Gina Reilly is one of the most prominent volunteers who 
has helped make this mission a reality.
  Prior to her diagnosis, Ms. Reilly was a renowned competitor in U.S. 
adult ice dancing competitions. In addition to being a champion ice 
dancer, she was also a ballroom dancer, nightclub singer, and owner of 
a successful graphic arts and computer embroidering business. After her 
diagnosis in 2003, Ms. Reilly refused to let her disease prevent her 
from further achievements. In addition to continuing her pursuits in 
athletics and business, Ms. Reilly has begun working with the YOPA. Her 
incredible courage and fortitude provide a role model of how one can 
live their life while afflicted with Parkinson's disease.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues recognize the outstanding work 
of the Young Onset Parkinson's Association, and I congratulate Ms. 
Reilly for her outstanding achievements and bravery.

                          ____________________