[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 53 (Friday, April 4, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E514]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING THE EFRAIN ANTHONY MARRERO FOUNDATION

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                          HON. HENRY A. WAXMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 3, 2008

  Mr. WAXMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate 
the efforts of the Efrain Anthony Marrero Foundation.
  Over the last three years, the House Oversight Committee has held 
numerous hearings into the impact of steroid abuse. We've learned of 
widespread abuse, not just by professional athletes, but by millions of 
teenage boys and girls, and we've learned of the terrible health 
impacts of this abuse.
  We've heard from many experts who are doing the hard work necessary 
to reduce this epidemic of steroid abuse. And we've heard the tragic 
personal stories of families that have been affected by this problem.
  Frank and Brenda Marrero are the parents of Efrain Marrero. Almost 
four years ago, their son Efrain, a promising high school athlete, 
committed suicide following steroid abuse.
  The Marrerros grieved. And they also acted, starting the Efrain 
Anthony Marrero Foundation to tell their story and to educate teenagers 
about the dangers of steroid abuse.
  Representing their foundation, and keeping alive the memory of their 
son, the Marreros have traveled the country, speaking to parents, 
teachers, coaches, and teenagers at hundreds of workshops. Their simple 
message--and the power of their tragic personal story and their ability 
to persevere--have educated thousands of parents and children about the 
health impacts of steroid abuse.
  I want to thank the Marreros for their efforts. The foundation's 
motto--FAST--Fighting Against Steroids Together--is a reminder of the 
need for constant vigilance by coaches, teachers, parents, and public 
officials to solve this public health problem.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the ongoing work of 
Frank and Brenda Marrero, and the Efrain Anthony Marrero Foundation, to 
reduce steroid abuse.

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