[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 70 (Tuesday, May 18, 2004)]
[Senate]
[Page S5603]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                             JASON METCALFE

 Mr. NELSON of Florida. Mr. President, I rise today to commend 
an exceptional young Floridian, who is raising money to build an ALS 
clinic in Jacksonville. Jason Metcalfe may only be a fourth grader at 
Tynes Elementary school, but his story can teach us all--young and old 
alike--a lesson in the spirit of giving.
  Jason's good friend and confidant, Mr. Chapman, was diagnosed with 
ALS, a debilitating condition commonly called Lou Gehrig's disease. 
After learning Mr. Chapman was stricken with the devastating disease, 
he took action.
  Jason made a long-term goal to become a scientist and help find a 
cure for ALS. He has already improved his grades and is now receiving 
top marks in school. In addition to his commitment to education, Jason 
decided to help in the short term by collecting money to support ALS 
research and treatment facilities. He has been saving his allowance, 
selling candy and taking donations. And I am proud to report that he 
has already shattered his original goal of raising $500 and has 
collected in excess of $11,000.
  Mr. Chapman passed away on February 1, 2004, but Jason's dream to 
become an ALS researcher and to build a clinic in Jacksonville lives 
on. Jason's hard work, determination and leadership is an example to us 
all. I am proud of the work he is doing to give back to people like Mr. 
Chapman, who suffer from ALS.
  Thank you, Mr. President, for allowing me to recognize the efforts of 
an exceptional young Floridian.

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