[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 165 (Thursday, November 5, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1606]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE 35th ANNIVERSARY OF THE GUILLAIN-BARRE SYNDROME/CHRONIC 
          INFLAMMATORY DEMYELINATING POLYNEUROPATHY FOUNDATION

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. STENY H. HOYER

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 5, 2015

  Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Guillain-Barre/
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy Foundation 
International's thirty-fifth anniversary. For more than three decades, 
the GBS/CIDP Foundation has done more than advocate for effective 
treatment; it has provided hope and resources to those who suffer from 
these disorders. The Foundation's staff and volunteers help those with 
GBS and CIDP recognize that they are not alone--and that they have 
powerful allies in their corner.
  Last night, I had the privilege of serving as master of ceremonies 
for the Foundation's anniversary gala, at which my friend and 
colleague, Representative John Garamendi of California was honored as 
``Legislator of the Year.'' John's two daughters, Christina and 
Elizabeth, experienced GBS, and he is not only a great leader on this 
issue but also a steadfast advocate for access to quality, affordable 
health care for all who need it.
  Many of those who suffer from GBS and CIDP find themselves 
experiencing a physical disability, which can have a profound effect on 
their quality of life and, potentially, their ability to work. One of 
the proudest moments of my career in public service was leading the 
effort in the House to pass the bipartisan Americans with Disabilities 
Act in 1990, ensuring that every American with a differing ability can 
have his or her equal rights, equal access, and equal dignity 
recognized and respected.
  This year we're celebrating the twenty-fifth anniversary of that 
landmark legislation, which did more than change the way we construct 
buildings or crosswalks--it changed attitudes. Changing attitudes about 
what GBS and CIDP means for those experiencing it and why we must work 
together to find new treatments and a cure has been the great work of 
this Foundation.
  I am proud to have been a part of last night's event, and I ask my 
colleagues to join me in congratulating the GBS/CIDP Foundation 
International on this milestone anniversary. I want to thank organizers 
Ralph Neas and Katherine Beh Neas, both for their friendship over the 
years and for their untiring efforts to raise awareness, provide 
resources, and support research to benefit those suffering from GBS/
CIDP. I look forward to continuing my support for their important and 
impactful work.

                          ____________________