[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 160 (Monday, October 24, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1908]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            LEO P. VERGNETTI

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. LOU BARLETTA

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 24, 2011

  Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Leo P. Vergnetti, the 2011 
honoree at the American Cancer Society Ball of Hope in Scranton, 
Pennsylvania, on October 28, 2011. Mr. Vergnetti has been a dedicated 
supporter of the American Cancer Society for decades. This is a charity 
that has been very close to his heart since his beloved wife, Carol, 
passed away due to cancer in 1984. Mr. Vergnetti turned this tragic 
event in his life into a reason to champion cancer research. His 
efforts have raised significant funds to support cancer services in his 
home region of Northeastern Pennsylvania.
  Mr. Vergnetti's work with children has enabled many suffering with 
cancer to attend Camp Can-Do. This is a camp for children who are 
receiving cancer treatment. The ability to attend this camp and 
interact with other children going through the same trials and 
tribulations is empowering. Mr. Vergnetti has raised money to give 
several children this life-affirming experience and escape the stress 
of the disease that they are fighting.
  Not only is Mr. Vergnetti a former chairman of the American Cancer 
Society's Board of Ambassadors, but he is also the founder. At a time 
when 1.4 million new cancer cases are expected in this country during 
the next year, having a group of community leaders gathering ideas for 
advancing the ACS's mission is pivotal.
  As a philanthropist, Mr. Vergnetti has been a pivotal part of 
securing funding for many other charities including the Wyoming 
Children's Association, the Scranton Relay for Life Committee, and the 
Muscular Dystrophy Association.
  Mr. Speaker, it is fitting that the American Cancer Society honors a 
man who has donated so much of his time and effort to such a worthy 
cause. I am certain that his hard work and dedication will not end 
here. Fighting for those enduring cancer and furthering research to 
help find a cure are close to Leo Vergnetti's heart, and it is my 
pleasure to acknowledge all of his efforts here today.

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