[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 26 (Wednesday, February 9, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E134]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             IN RECOGNITION OF THE LATE NATHAN WENDEL GRAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MATT CARTWRIGHT

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 9, 2022

  Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Nathan Gray, who 
lost his battle with childhood cancer on January 6, 2022. In his eight 
years of life, Nathan's courage, positivity, and bright smile inspired 
many, raised awareness for childhood cancer, and banded a community 
together, inspiring others to do good.
  Nathan was born on July 16, 2013 to Jeffrey and Patricia Gray, and he 
was the beloved brother of ten year old Jeffrey and six year old 
Natalie. When Nathan was two years old, he was diagnosed with Wilms 
tumor, a rare form of kidney cancer. He fought cancer with the bravery 
of a superhero, enduring 221 doses of chemotherapy, 26 surgeries, 33 
days of radiation, an oral inhibitor, and more than 100 blood platelet 
transfusions. Despite the challenges of his illness, Nathan attended 
St. Nicholas-St. Mary's School and enjoyed swimming, playing video 
games, and riding his bike.
  Nathan's bravery and joy garnered local attention in August 2016 when 
the Facebook page ``Nathan the Super Hero'' was started by his family 
lo document his battle with cancer. Thousands of people have followed 
the page, sharing words of encouragement. celebrating the joyful 
moments, and offering comfort and support during the challenging ones. 
Nathan quickly became a local celebrity, inspiring members of the 
community with his infectious simile and relentless courage. The 
community rallied around Nathan. cheering him on and making him feel 
special. In February 2020, the Wilkes-Barre Area Wolfpack named him 
honorary team captain before they played their inaugural home game at 
Wilkes-Barre Memorial Stadium. In August 2020, Wilkes-Barre police and 
fire department vehicles paraded past his home while well-wishers 
delivered gifts, and, in December 2021, carolers visited Nathan to 
spread some Christmas cheer. Just last month, the Wilkes-Barre council 
unanimously voted to rename the Barney Farms Park in Nathan's honor.
  Nathan's family's willingness to be open and share their son's 
experiences with Wilms tumor helped shed important light on the issue 
of childhood cancer and the need for more aggressive research and 
increased funding for prevention and cures--so that children like 
Nathan do not have to suffer.
  I am honored to recognize the life and legacy of this brave young 
man. Nathan's memory will live on with his beloved family and friends 
and the large community that he inspired with his determination and 
positivity.

                          ____________________