[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 81 (Thursday, May 9, 2024)]
[Senate]
[Pages S3649-S3650]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO CHESCA BARNETT

 Mr. TUBERVILLE. Madam President, Chesca Barnett of Brierfield 
went to the U.S. Air Force Academy at age 17, thinking that she would 
one day become an astronaut. Little did she know that her time in the 
military would take her on a completely different career path. Due to 
some medical setbacks, Chesca was told she wouldn't be able to go to 
flight school, as she had originally planned. She recalls feeling 
devastated at having to give up on a dream she'd had since she was 6 
years old.
  This setback led her to discover an unexpected passion that would 
allow her to help those who need it most. A military career coach 
encouraged Chesca to become a pharmacy tech. She found that she loved 
the work. After 8 years in the military, Chesca began studying to 
become a pharmacist.
  She chose to specialize in pediatrics because she believes our 
children deserve the best care available. And for the last 20 years, 
she has been serving as a pharmacist at Children's of Alabama. She also 
helps at Cooper Green Mercy Help Services.
  A colleague at Children's said that Chesca is ``an excellent 
pediatric pharmacist with a strong focus on patient safety and a team 
player who willingly shifts her schedule or comes in for extra shifts 
to ensure patients are taken care of.''
  Chesca feels she has a ``duty'' to serve, which she attributes to her 
time in the military. But her impact spans far beyond the medical 
field. Chesca also teaches courses at Jefferson State Community College 
and Samford University. There, she helps students who are facing 
personal challenges, reminding them that if she overcame her struggles, 
they can, too. Chesca is also a proud mom of four.

[[Page S3650]]

  We are thankful for Chesca's devotion to helping Alabamians in need. 
Her story is an inspiration to anyone who is facing a difficult 
circumstance. It is my honor to recognize her as the May Veteran of the 
Month.

                          ____________________