[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 38 (Monday, March 14, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E478]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      IN HONOR OF JOSEPH MELENICK

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 14, 2011

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Joseph Melenick, 
a 17 year-old man who has dedicated his adolescence to finding a cure 
for Crohn's disease.
  Five years ago, Joe was diagnosed with Crohn's disease, a disorder 
that causes swelling in the digestive tract, severe pain, and 
gastrointestinal complications. Since being diagnosed, Joe has remained 
committed to raising money to find a cure for the disease, to helping 
others with his condition, and to keep fighting for the benefit of 
others.
  On his twelfth birthday, Joe decided to host a fundraiser at a 
bowling alley, with the hope of raising $1,000 for the Crohn's and 
Colitis Foundation for research. With over 100 participants in the 
fundraiser, Joe well surpassed his goal and raised approximately 
$4,700. Since that first fundraiser, he has made this an annual event 
and has raised close to $50,000.
  In addition to his annual bowling fundraiser, Joe often speaks to 
groups in the Cleveland area about the disease and how he copes. His 
presentations show the group that they are not alone in battling this 
terrible disease, and that there is hope for a cure.
  Joe has facilitated other events to raise awareness and gather 
donations for the foundation in collaboration with a team he formed, 
called the ``GI Joes.'' Events include a 2-mile walk around Progressive 
Field with the Bay High School drum line and the GI Joes. The team has 
collected sponsorships from local companies, friends, families and 
concerned citizens.
  As a result of his hard work and dedication to finding a cure for the 
disease, the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation chose him as the 2010 
Honored Hero for the Cleveland area. In addition, Joe was recently 
named one of the top two youth volunteers for 2011 by the Prudential 
Spirit of Community Awards.
  Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring Joseph 
Melenick as he strives to raise funds for finding a cure for Crohn's 
disease, and for acting as a role model for Cleveland's young people.

                          ____________________