[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 74 (Thursday, May 23, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E758]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING DEBBIE ZELMAN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. LOIS FRANKEL

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 23, 2013

  Ms. FRANKEL of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Debbie 
Zelman, a truly inspiring woman from South Florida. Five years ago, Ms. 
Zelman was a successful attorney, wife, and mother, when she heard 
those life shattering words that she was diagnosed with Stage IV 
stomach cancer. The doctor gave her only a 50/50 chance to live after 
one year and only a four percent chance to live after five years. It's 
been four years now, and I am proud to say Debbie is with us today, 
beating the odds every day.
  Debbie is not alone in her struggle against stomach cancer. This 
terrible disease is the most common form of cancer in the world. Every 
year in America, 21,000 Americans are diagnosed with stomach cancer, 
and it is the second leading cause of cancer deaths for women in this 
country.
  After receiving her diagnosis, Debbie was frustrated to find little 
information on her disease and fewer options for treatment and support. 
Fortunately, she persevered and got treatment. Today, she is not only a 
cancer survivor, she is an advocate.
  In 2009, she founded Debbie's Dream Foundation: Curing Stomach 
Cancer, which provides a voice for the victims of this under-recognized 
and under-funded disease. Initially working in South Florida, Debbie's 
Dream has grown into a national organization that provides support and 
awareness for patients and their families. During their 4th Annual 
Night of Laugher, Debbie's Dream raised $21,000 for stomach cancer 
research.
  In honor of her inspiring fight against cancer and her tireless 
advocacy, I am pleased to recognize Debbie Zelman and wish her 
continued success in this important endeavor.

                          ____________________