[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 130 (Monday, October 11, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1919]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               IN HONOR OF GILDA'S CLUB OF NEW YORK CITY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JERROLD NADLER

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 8, 2004

  Mr. NADLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Gilda's Club 
of New York City, on the occasion of its 10th anniversary. In 1995, 
Gilda's Club opened its doors in honor of the late Gilda Radner. While 
most well-known for her work as a comedienne, Radner's legacy carries 
on in the Club because of her wish that people living with cancer, as 
she did so bravely, would find a community with which to talk and seek 
comfort while fighting the disease. A festive gala, ``Celebrating 
Gilda,'' will be held on November 4th to mark the success and progress 
of Gilda's Club over the past ten years.
  Gilda's Club, a non-profit organization with both of its branches 
located in my Congressional district, was founded upon the premise that 
``when cancer happens, it happens to the entire family,'' a message so 
eloquently conveyed by Radner herself. Gilda's Club is premised on the 
belief that while doctors can treat the physical effects of cancer, the 
emotional effects of the disease must also be treated. The Club 
provides a comprehensive emotional and social support community for 
anyone whose life has been touched by cancer in any way, free of 
charge. Its Basic III Plus membership provides programs ranging from 
Support and Networking Groups, to education in Lectures and Workshops, 
to a playful yet supportive atmosphere for children in Noogieland, all 
designed to channel strength, hope and solidarity to all participants.
  The current membership of the Club is 3,615, and the Club has now 
passed the milestone of 100,000 member visits. An organization with a 
resolute mission, a compassionate heart, and an intrinsic sense of 
humor, Gilda's Club is a valued asset to the New York community. 
Testimonials, such as that of one member who said that ``this club has 
shined light and hope into some of the darkest corners of my life,'' 
coupled with the growing membership numbers are a clear indication of 
the Club's magnificent achievements. I am delighted to wish Gilda's 
Club a joyous and memorable 10th anniversary celebration, and to convey 
my sincere wishes for a thriving and prosperous second decade.

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