[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 75 (Wednesday, May 9, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E617]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   IN RECOGNITION OF RASHEDA ALI'S TIRELESS ADVOCACY FOR PARKINSON'S 
                                DISEASE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DEBBIE DINGELL

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 9, 2018

  Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Rasheda Ali as she 
is recognized by the American Human Rights Council (AHRC). Her efforts 
have been paramount in bringing recognition and hope to those suffering 
from various neuro-cognitive disorders.
  Founded in 2014, the AHRC brings together community leaders and civil 
rights activists to promote and defend human rights definded in the 
United States' Constitution and by the United Nations' Declaration of 
Human Rights. Initially focused on protecting and preserving the rights 
of prisoners, the AHRC has expanded its advocacy efforts to address 
pressing humanitarian issues in the United States and abroad. The AHRC 
has been able to draw attention to human rights issues through its work 
with local and state partners, including Rasheda Ali.
  As the daughter of Muhammad Ali, Ms. Rasheda Ali has witnessed the 
devastating toll of Parkinson's Disease firsthand. After watching her 
father suffer for more than 30 years from the disease, she was inspired 
to speak publicly about his struggles and help shine a light on 
Parkinson's Disease. Her book ``I'll Hold Your Hand So You Won't Fall--
A Child's Guide to Parkinson's Disease'' has been read by families all 
across the world. Ms. Ali travels across the globe raising awareness 
for neuro-cognitive disorders and meeting with families who shared her 
family's experience. Her work has elevated her to a public platform and 
she has appeared on many news networks including NBC, CNN, MSNBC and 
FOX. Through her speaking events and travel, Ms. Ali has raised 
awareness and funds for Parkinson's Disease, and we are grateful for 
her work. It is my hope that she will continue to advocate for medical 
research and lead the way into a world without Parkinson's Disease.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Rasheda Ali 
for her life's work as a Parkinson's Disease advocate. Her actions 
inspire us to put others before ourselves and speak up to advance the 
causes that we believe in.

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