[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 109 (Tuesday, July 10, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1478]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO MR. ED STIZZA

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. HARRY E. MITCHELL

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 10, 2007

  Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the awarding 
of the first DaVita Patient Citizens Hero Award to Mr. Ed Stizza from 
Fountain Hills, AZ for his efforts and activities to educate his 
community about Chronic Kidney Disease and End Stage Renal Disease.
  Mr. Stizza is unquestionably a worthy recipient of the DPC Hero 
Award, which spotlights individuals who have gone above and beyond to 
positively impact and progress kidney education and care within their 
communities. A 30-year patient of diabetes and survivor of colon 
cancer, Mr. Stizza is a model of perseverance. Four years ago, facing a 
diagnosis of End Stage Renal Disease, Mr. Stizza turned his battle into 
an opportunity to empower others. As a dialysis patient for these past 
4 years, Mr. Stizza has worked tirelessly to help improve the lives of 
other dialysis patients, and to educate those in his community who are 
at risk of kidney failure.
  More the 20 million Americans have chronic kidney disease, which if 
left untreated can lead to End Stage Renal Disease. However, with the 
help of individuals like Mr. Stizza and particularly his work in 
support of the Kidney Care Quality and Education Act, the need for 
dialysis can be reduced and the lives of the more than 400,000 patients 
currently suffering from ESRD will improve.
  Mr. Stizza is the quintessential every day hero who, in the face of 
numerous obstacles, not only triumphed, but simultaneously worked to 
improve the lives of others. He has undoubtedly improved the lives of 
many in his community and beyond.

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