[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 23 (Tuesday, February 23, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E215]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                             MELANIE SHOUSE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RUSS CARNAHAN

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 23, 2010

  Mr. CARNAHAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer my sincere 
condolences to the family and friends of an individual I was just 
beginning to get to know last year during the height of the intense 
debate over health insurance reform--Melanie Shouse. It is with sadness 
that I inform you that we have lost Melanie earlier this month entirely 
too soon.
  Melanie was diagnosed with breast cancer years ago and was unable to 
afford a doctor. After being diagnosed she became one of the St. Louis 
area's strongest advocates for health care reform, but sadly wasn't 
able to see her hard work come to fruition.
  Last year, she was kind enough to share her story with those for and 
against health insurance reform at one of my town hall meetings. 
Melanie handled herself with great poise and distinction as she had 
throughout her time advocating for reform and I could not thank her 
enough. She so successfully made the case for reform. Despite our loss, 
she continues to give us hope that health insurance reform can become a 
reality.
  My thoughts are with Melanie's partner Steve, her parents, sisters 
and grandmother. Melanie served as an inspiration for so many and will 
be sorely missed.

                          ____________________