[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 76 (Thursday, May 2, 2024)]
[Senate]
[Page S3311]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO ERIN GOOCH

 Mr. SCHMITT. Madam President, I rise today to recognize and 
honor a model citizen, Erin Gooch. Erin's dedication to her family and 
community has earned her the title ``Champion of Missouri.''
  Inspired by her son Teddy and his difficulties accessing certain 
features with local playgrounds due to dwarfism, Erin set off on a 
mission to transform a local derelict park into a place that all 
children may enjoy regardless of ability. Alongside Unlimited Play, an 
organization that helps to plan, design, and build fully accessible 
playgrounds, Erin has fundraised over $3 million for the Teddy & 
Friends Inclusive Playground. The new playground in Queeny Park will 
have specially made swings, ladders, and ramps so that kids of all ages 
and abilities may safely enjoy every part.
  With this effort, Erin has become a community pillar. She serves as 
an exemplary individual, one who is willing to go above and beyond in 
service of others. Erin is passionate about educating others about 
people with different disabilities and helping other parents navigate 
the complexities of the medical and therapy world for their children. 
She is a dedicated mother of two kids--Chloe and Teddy--and wife to 
Craig Gooch.
  Erin is truly a champion of Missouri.

                          ____________________