[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 194 (Monday, December 10, 2018)]
[House]
[Page H9808]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING SHALYNNE VILELA

  (Mr. KIHUEN asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. KIHUEN. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to share the story of Shalynne 
Vilela, the loving daughter of Amy and David Vilela.
  At just 22 years old, Shalynne was a smart, ambitious, and dedicated 
young woman who loved her family. She was working hard to become a 
registered nurse.
  In 2015, Shalynne was admitted to the ER with symptoms of deep vein 
thrombosis, a highly treatable condition, if treated in time.
  Upon arrival to the ER, Shalynne told the hospital staff that she did 
not have insurance, and she was advised to leave the hospital without 
being given proper care.
  Three weeks later, Shalynne died of a pulmonary embolism caused by a 
blood clot that originated in her leg.
  It is unacceptable that, in one of the richest and most powerful 
countries in the world, a tragedy like this can still occur. Everyone 
in the United States of America should have access to quality and 
affordable health insurance. Access to healthcare is a basic human 
right, and no one should ever be denied medical care because of their 
inability to pay.
  This is why, Mr. Speaker, I have recently pledged my support to the 
Medicare for All Act, which provides universal coverage to all those 
living in the United States of America.
  My deepest condolences go out to the Vilela family. And, Shalynne, 
this one is for you.

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