[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 9 (Monday, January 23, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E52]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING RACHEL COLLETT

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, January 23, 2012

  Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge the 
extraordinary life and decidedly courageous outlook of Rachel Collett 
upon her graduation from Livonia Churchill High School.
  On January 13, 2012, Rachel, resplendent in her red cap and gown, 
rose from her wheelchair and walked across the stage to accept her high 
school diploma. After ceremoniously moving the tassel from right to 
left, she triumphantly tossed her cap into the air as family, friends 
and school officials applauded.
  Rachel Collett has taught much more than she has learned. She was 
diagnosed with osteosarcoma at the age of 11 and though since the 
initial diagnosis she has been constantly been in some form of 
treatment but never remission, she has never let the disease define 
her. Rather, she focused on living and determined to schedule her 
treatment around life and not life around her treatment. She has 
resolved to make every moment worth remembering. Rachel was earned a 
Livonia Rotary Service Award, earned college credits while in high 
school, coached middle school cheerleading squads and was a member of 
the Churchill High School varsity cheerleading squad until this school 
year. She attended classes until October 2011 when the debilitating 
pain made it impossible to continue. Even then, the indomitable Miss 
Collett continued her schoolwork at home.
  Rachel Collett is a remarkable young woman who reminds us longevity 
is never promised in this life. She has accepted what is and is 
determined to live the days God has given her striving to accomplish 
the goals she has set for herself. What we take for granted she fights 
for the opportunity to achieve.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and absolute privilege to recognize this 
incredibly inspiring young woman. For all she has endured, Rachel 
Collett still embraces life with an irrepressible smile. I ask my 
colleagues to join me in recognizing the incomparable light she is to 
all who know her and in thanking her for all she has brought to our 
community and our country. Shine on, Rachel.

                          ____________________