[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 141 (Tuesday, November 18, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1621]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




CELEBRATING THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE T.J. MARTELL FOUNDATION 5K WALK

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                      HON. RODNEY P. FRELINGHUYSEN

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 18, 2014

  Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, twenty years ago a dedicated group of 
volunteers began an annual tradition that has made the first Sunday in 
October a special day in the Borough of Madison, Morris County, New 
Jersey. They organized a 5K Walk to raise money for the T.J. Martell 
Foundation--a non-profit group that raises funds to advance the fight 
against leukemia, cancer and AIDS.
  The T.J. Martell Foundation was established as a result of a promise 
made by a father to his son. A son who was battling leukemia. A son who 
asked his father to raise $1 million to support cancer research so that 
``no one else will have to experience what I am going through.'' And a 
father, Tony Martell, a longtime resident of Madison, who kept that 
promise and far surpassed it.
  Over the years, the T.J. Martell Foundation has provided more than 
$260 million to support cutting-edge research to advance the war 
against leukemia, cancer, and AIDS. The people of Madison, have been 
there for their friend and neighbor every year. The passage of time has 
not diminished their commitment to honor T.J. Martell by helping his 
father fulfill his promise.
  This event has grown from its modest beginnings to become an all-day 
affair, kicking off with a 5K walk and extending through the day with 
music, activities, and food. Today it is both an effective fundraiser 
and a fun-filled day enjoyed by hundreds of families every year. It is 
a celebration of life and of the promise of victory over these dreaded 
diseases.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in paying tribute to all those who 
support the work of the T.J. Martell Foundation across our nation, but 
especially in Madison, New Jersey. This annual event is a testament 
both to the life of T.J. Martell and to the deep sense of community 
that makes Madison a wonderful place in which to live.

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