[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 181 (Thursday, November 2, 2023)]
[House]
[Pages H5233-H5234]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   A STORY OF HOPE AND POSSIBILITIES

  (Ms. DEAN of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to address 
the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. DEAN of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, this past Monday, October 30, 
marked 11 years that my son, Harry, has been in long-term recovery from 
opioid addiction. Yet even now, I can still feel the fear, the worry, 
and hear the fights. What happened to our little boy? Where did his 
light and his gifts go?
  The years of active addiction were very difficult for our family. 
Yet, when Harry finally accepted help, with all the courage and honesty 
that that takes, we got him into treatment immediately. We did it as a 
family.
  I remember October 30 as much as I remember Harry's birthday, a 
rebirth, two lifetimes in one.
  Back then, it was one week before I was elected to a full term in the 
Pennsylvania State house, and now, 11 years later, I stand on the floor 
of this House, lifting up my son's recovery, which is the story of so 
many others: the pain, the strength, the selflessness, the purpose.

[[Page H5234]]

  Today, Harry is married, father of three, one of the strongest people 
I know, and helping others reach recovery. His story is the story of 
hope and possibilities. Let's dedicate ourselves to helping others find 
their own October 30.

                          ____________________