[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 38 (Monday, March 5, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E254]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                      SPECIAL OLYMPIAN, ``BEEBO''

                                 ______
                                 

                              HON. TED POE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 5, 2018

  Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, once Brendan West picked up a 
basketball, he was never able to put it down. Nicknamed ``Beebo,'' 
Brendan is a 22 year old Special Olympian from Houston, Texas, who has 
become an aficionado of the game of basketball.
  Beebo has Roberts Syndrome, a genetic disorder that delays the growth 
of limbs and facial features. He was born without arms, so naturally he 
learned to do everything with his feet. His father, Ray, and his 
mother, Ann, adopted Beebo when he was 6 weeks old. Doctors told his 
parents he wouldn't be able to do anything other than eat and go to the 
bathroom. His diagnosis didn't keep Beebo down for long, continuing to 
defy the odds.
  Just about anytime and anywhere, you can find a smile on Beebo's face 
and a basketball between his feet. Beebo first learned how to play 
basketball when he was in Jr. High. With just his feet, he is able to 
dribble and shoot the ball with deadly accuracy. His basketball skills 
have earned him multiple titles and propelled him forward as an award 
winning Special Olympian. Beebo was even honored with an honorary ESPY, 
the Excellence in Sports Performance Yearly Award, last year. The 
basketball star has shot hoops with NBA player James Harden and even 
played with the world-renowned Harlem Globetrotters. Beebo is not only 
an amazing basketball player, but also an exceptional bowler and tennis 
player, winning gold medals in both events.
  Perhaps the most shining quality Beebo exudes is his personality. 
When you step onto a basketball court, you can hear Beebo's laugh 
echoing from every corner. His enthusiasm for the game of basketball 
and life is infectious, and he inspires everyone around him.
  I am honored to be able to spread the inspiring story of Beebo. His 
resiliency, determination, and grit all are to be admired and something 
we should all seek in our lives.
  He is the perfect embodiment of what it means to be a Special 
Olympian and Houstonian. Keep playing basketball, Beebo, we will all be 
cheering him on.

                          ____________________