[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 167 (Thursday, November 21, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1749]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    RECOGNIZING THE WHIPPLE WARRIORS

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                           HON. LOIS FRANKEL

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 21, 2013

  Ms. FRANKEL of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
Whipple Warriors, a group founded by Ronda Bogani Ayala of West Palm 
Beach, Florida. This organization is dedicated to helping people with 
pancreatic cancer who qualify for a procedure known as ``Whipple'' 
surgery.
  Pancreatic cancer is a heart-breaking disease with a very low life 
expectancy. About 3 out 4 patients die within the first year of 
diagnosis. Whipple surgery can help increase the life expectancy of 
those diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, though only about 15 percent of 
patients qualify for this dangerous and complicated procedure.
  In January 2010, Ms. Ayala received the devastating diagnosis of 
pancreatic cancer. However, she was a candidate for the Whipple 
surgery. After her procedure she found very few resources for support 
and guidance. She decided to create an organization called the Whipple 
Warriors in 2011
  The Whipple Warriors provide support to patients in many countries, 
allowing patients to discuss their experiences and share ways to cope 
with the cancer. Additionally, Whipple Warriors members participate in 
research to study the long-term effects on the body. They provide much-
needed resources to the growing community of survivors around the 
world.
  In honor of Ronda and her organization's tireless work for the 
pancreatic cancer community, I am pleased to recognize the Whipple 
Warriors and wish them continued success in this important endeavor.

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