[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 91 (Wednesday, June 17, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1462]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         IN HONOR OF THE AMAZING BICYCLE JOURNEY OF SHAWNE CAMP

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JACKIE SPEIER-

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 17, 2009

  Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, today, a heroic journey came to a 
successful end when Millbrae, California's Shawne Camp parked his 
bicycle at the foot of the Washington Monument. In fewer than 50 days, 
Shawne has ridden from San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge to the 
nation's capital to raise funds and awareness for lung disease and the 
American Lung Association.
  In 2000 and 2001, Shawne suffered two complete collapses to his right 
lung. The condition, known as spontaneous pneumothorax, is extremely 
painful and can be fatal if not treated quickly. After multiple 
surgeries, Shawne was told that he was unlikely to ever return to full 
strength and should resign himself to a more sedate lifestyle. But the 
lifelong athlete wasn't accustomed to taking it easy and set out to 
prove that he could come back to full strength--and then some.
  With support from family, friends and his employer, Shawne turned his 
success at rehabilitation into a personal crusade to help others. On 
May 8, he headed north from the Golden Gate Bridge on a solo, self-
funded bicycle ride across America to help others suffering from lung 
ailments.
  Over the past five weeks, Shawne has endured mountains, deserts, 
storms, fierce headwinds, angry dogs and even bears. But he's been 
supported by legions of devoted followers who have tracked his 3000 
mile journey online and countless strangers along the way who have 
helped with shelter from the rain, a warm shower, or occasional meal.
  Madam Speaker, Shawne Camp is an inspiration to anyone who chooses to 
overcome adversity. His journey has advanced awareness for spontaneous 
pneumothorax and other lung afflictions and raised money for a very 
good cause. I am proud to call Shawne Camp my constituent and am 
delighted to introduce this inspiring young man to my colleagues in the 
United States Congress.

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