[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 193 (Wednesday, December 4, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1538]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF VICTORIA J. POLLYEA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. KATHY CASTOR

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 4, 2019

  Ms. CASTOR of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 
life and contributions of a tireless leader of the Tampa community, 
Victoria ``Vicki'' J. Pollyea.
  Vicki was born and raised in Tampa, Florida. At an early age, Vicki 
learned how to take on challenges after being diagnosed with Charcot-
Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). Vicki used her hard earned ability to 
``fight through'' for herself and others her entire life. For example, 
having to undergo strenuous physical therapy in her youth, inspired her 
to pursue Occupational Therapy so she could be a source of strength and 
healing for others.
  After graduating Summa Cum Laude from the University of Florida, 
Vicki worked as a pediatric occupational therapist until CMT forced her 
to retire. Again, even though she retired early from formal work, she 
kept her skills honed and never ceased using them to help others. And, 
being unable to continue practicing as an occupational therapist, she 
used her strength and energy to plunge into advocacy for CMT. She 
served as the web page moderator for Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association 
(CMTA); realized the impact that CMT had on her neighbors in Tampa and 
helped found the CMTA Tampa branch. Vicki then became a branch leader 
and a Support Group Leader for CMTA. She was always there for the newly 
diagnosed as a shining real-life example of perseverance.
  Vicki's involvement and commitment to the Tampa community grew when 
she co-founded the Bayshore Gardens Neighborhood Association. She 
served as president for more than two decades. In addition to her 
position, she hosted annual holiday gatherings for neighbors, including 
many who didn't have anywhere else to go. Vicki also served on the 
Mayor's Neighborhood Task Force and helped draft the City of Tampa's 
tree-protection code and her efforts to improve Bayshore Boulevard are 
evident every day.
  Vicki used her voice to advocate for her South Tampa neighborhood and 
indeed the entire city. She helped manage the urban forest and ensured 
all neighborhoods had their voices heard. Shortly before her death, the 
Tampa City Council honored her with a commendation for her community 
service and a CMT walk-n-roll event has been named in her honor.
  Vicki is survived by her husband, Archie Giannella; sister and 
brother in-law, Lisa and Gordon; niece, Claire; stepson, Brock Heinz; 
godson, John Helmiere, Randi, John, and many beloved cousins. She also 
leaves behind a community of children, from babies to adults with 
babies of their own, who cherish her as a beloved ``aunt''.
  Madam Speaker, on behalf of a grateful and saddened Tampa community, 
I am proud to honor Victoria J. Pollyea's life. Vicki was admired by 
her neighbors for her advocacy and her will to never let any challenge 
dim her passion to help others. Her devotion to her neighbors and Tampa 
inspires us still and will live on always in our hearts.

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