[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 117 (Tuesday, September 19, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1767]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      55TH ANNIVERSARY OF AL-ANON

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                            HON. JIM RAMSTAD

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 19, 2006

  Mr. RAMSTAD. Mr. Speaker, this month marks the 55th anniversary of 
Al-Anon Family Groups. As co-chair of the Addiction, Treatment and 
Recovery Caucus, I want to recognize the tremendous work of this 
dedicated organization.
  For over half a century, Al-Anon and Alateen have been a key source 
of support and hope for families and friends of alcoholics and addicts 
all over the world, with over 26,000 groups in 115 different countries.
  Policymakers often focus attention on the individual with chemical 
addiction and forget or underestimate how devastating a loved one's 
disease can be on friends and family members.
  Thankfully, Al-Anon and Alateen have never forgotten and are always 
there whenever a hurting person reaches out for help. We owe a 
tremendous debt of gratitude to Al-Anon and Alateen.
  This month not only marks the 55th anniversary of Al-Anon, it is also 
the 17th annual National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month. As 
we celebrate the promise and possibility of recovery this month, we 
must also remember the loved ones impacted by this devastating disease. 
As the chemical dependency professionals tell us, chemical addiction is 
truly a ``family disease.''
  Thanks to Al-Anon, these individuals have a place to go where they 
can find hope and support. For that we owe this wonderful organization 
and all of its members our support and gratitude for 55 years of 
dedicated service.
  Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you, Al-Anon and Alateen.

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