[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 48 (Tuesday, March 20, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E348]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             SOCCER STAR AND SPECIAL OLYMPIAN, MATT WEISER

                                 ______
                                 

                              HON. TED POE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 20, 2018

  Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Matt Weiser loves nothing more than 
lacing up his cleats and hitting the soccer field. Matt is a skilled 
player and is lightning on his feet, but a few years ago, you wouldn't 
think that could have been possible.
  When Matt was in the second grade, he started experiencing epileptic 
seizures. The seizures started to become so severe his parents and 
doctors decided it was time to perform surgery. The operation required 
removing part of his brain, which rendered Matt speechless and 
paralyzed. After many rounds of therapy and the love and care of his 
family, Matt performed the unimaginable. He learned how to speak and 
walk again. Walking turned to running, and running eventually took him 
back to his first love, soccer.
  Matt started playing soccer when he was five. He competed in events 
all the way up until his surgery. After Matt learned how to walk again, 
he got right back on the field. His passion for soccer led to competing 
in the Special Olympics, which led to competing on the national stage. 
The Special Olympics has allowed Matt to pursue his dream of playing 
soccer and has been an invaluable resource to him and his family.
  As soon as Matt steps onto the soccer field, his exuberance and 
passion for life shines through. The dedication he has shown, just to 
get to where he is today, is exceptional. Being able to bounce back 
after a life altering surgery is a true testament to Matt's 
determination to better himself. Of course, it wouldn't have been 
possible without the help of his family and his parents, John and 
Rebecca. Sometimes life throws you a curve ball, but how you react to 
it and handle it, makes all the difference.
  I am honored to be able to spread Matt's inspiring story today. I am 
also proud to say Matt is a native of the great city of Houston, Texas. 
As Texans and Houstonians, we pride ourselves in hard work and Matt 
exemplifies that very quality. I have no doubt Matt will continue to 
dominate in the sport he loves and we will all be there cheering him 
on.
  And that's just the way it is.

                          ____________________