[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 64 (Tuesday, May 8, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E732]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING THE 2012 RECIPIENTS OF THE McGOWAN COURAGE AWARD

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JIM JORDAN

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 8, 2012

  Mr. JORDAN. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity to share 
positive stories about young people from Ohio's Fourth Congressional 
District who overcome adversity. Today, I am pleased to share the 
stories of seven such individuals.
  Alex Armstrong, Clear Fork High School. Alex refuses to allow 
Asperger's Syndrome to get in the way of pursuing his passion for 
music. He is a field commander for Clear Fork's marching band, 
participates in the stage and concert bands, and plays the organ at his 
church. Alex's leading roles in National Honor Society, the French 
Club, and the Tech Team are an inspiration to his teachers, who attest 
to his hard work and friendliness.
  Katie Cabrera, Crestview High School. Challenged by family 
circumstances that have forced her to take control of her own health 
care decisions, Katie has the respect and admiration of her teachers 
and school staff for the responsibility she shows in dealing with 
diabetes. Her confidence, courage, and independence are a model to 
young people and adults alike. Katie plans to attend college after 
graduation.
  Emily York, Lexington High School. A devastating motorcycle accident 
four years ago left Emily with third-degree burns over most of her 
body. She has endured multiple surgeries, skin grafts, and a serious 
leg infection resulting in amputation. After spending more than 18 
months away from home in hospitals, Emily has returned to school, where 
her dedication is a model to her fellow students. She plans to study 
art therapy.
  Mercedes Sawyer, Madison Comprehensive High School. Mercedes has 
suffered strokes and seizures caused by a rare and untreatable 
mitochondrial disease. She has fought this disease with diet changes 
and regular exercise, which has boosted her energy level and allowed 
her to participate in soccer, swimming, and track. A volunteer with the 
United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation, she will attend the University 
of Iowa this fall.
  Travon Slaughter, Mansfield Senior High School. Coping with chronic 
pain and muscular atrophy caused by a stroke he suffered in the womb, 
Travon's positive attitude and sense of humor have won him the 
admiration of his teachers and fellow students. He entered the Early 
Childhood Career Tech Program, has worked at Madison Early Childhood 
Learning Center, and has plans to start his own daycare center.
  Claire Engelken, Ontario High School. Claire has earned the respect 
of her peers and teachers for the way she has dealt with Asperger's 
Syndrome and scoliosis. Her passion for planning and for improving her 
communication skills continues to be an asset to her in her schoolwork. 
Claire has worked with the Pathway Program and wants to further develop 
her love of animals by working in an animal shelter or veterinary 
office after graduation.
  Caitlyn James, St. Peter's High School. Caitlyn will not allow the 
challenges she faces at home to overwhelm her positive spirit, strong 
faith, and commitment to fight injustices. She recently made a 
presentation at a child abuse prevention awareness event that she 
coordinated at St. Peter's. Caitlyn plans to continue her selfless 
service to others following graduation and is considering serving in 
the Armed Forces.
  Mr. Speaker, the Rotary Club of Mansfield, Ohio, will present these 
seven students with the McGowan Courage Award today. I am proud to join 
the Rotary in acknowledging their significant achievements and wishing 
them continued success in their lives.

                          ____________________