[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 64 (Wednesday, April 29, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1013]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING MADDESON ELIZABETH BILLMEYER

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                          HON. BRUCE L. BRALEY

                                of iowa

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 29, 2009

  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
courage and resolve of Maddeson Elizabeth Billmeyer. Maddeson went to 
the hospital after falling on the ice this past winter. During her 
hospital visit, a tumor was detected and diagnosed. This fall was a 
blessing in disguise, as it allowed for her to be diagnosed sooner 
rather than later.
  Maddeson was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma which has only about 150 
cases reported each year. This rare cancer has spread to both lungs. 
The cancer will be treated with 6 sessions of chemotherapy, followed by 
surgery to remove the tumor and any remaining cancer. Maddeson will 
then continue with chemotherapy for a minimum of 42 weeks.
  Maddeson is only 6 years old and is in the process of dealing with a 
terrible disease. Maddeson and her family have a difficult road ahead 
of them and they need community support. The Billmeyer family needs 
emotional, educational, and practical support from their family and 
friends.
  I want to use this unfortunate circumstance as an opportunity to 
promote childhood cancer awareness, and the need for childhood cancer 
education. Ours thoughts and prayers are with Maddeson Billmeyer and 
her family.

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