[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 84 (Wednesday, May 15, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H3207]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
NATIONAL WOMEN'S HEALTH WEEK
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from
Pennsylvania (Ms. Dean) for 5 minutes.
Ms. DEAN of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, National Women's Health Week
empowers women and girls to prioritize their unique health journeys.
A crucial part of that journey is education, prevention, and early
detection for illness and disease, like ovarian cancer.
Globally, ovarian cancer is the eighth most common cancer among
women, most of whom are over 60 years old. In the United States, the
American Cancer Society estimates that this year, more than 19,000
women will receive a diagnosis of ovarian cancer, and more than 12,000
women will die from ovarian cancer.
It is a frequently missed or misdiagnosed disease, there is no
routine screening, and it is not always included as part of an annual
gynecological exam like other cancers of the female reproductive
system.
I saw this firsthand with my mother's diagnosis and death, within
just weeks of her diagnosis of ovarian cancer many years ago, how
devastating ovarian cancer can be and how fast it can claim a loved
one. We must do better for our mothers, our grandmothers, our
grandchildren, our sisters, and our friends.
We must raise awareness, bolster research and education, and pass
legislation that prioritizes women's healthcare and saves lives. Our
health and our stories matter.
Honoring Rev. Dr. John E. Douglas
Ms. DEAN of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I pause now to start with
something that is of local color and recognizes a man of faith.
I rise today to recognize Reverend Dr. John E. Douglas of Antioch
Baptist Church in North Hills, Pennsylvania, as he celebrates 30 years
as a pastor.
I first met Pastor Douglas a dozen years ago when I served in the
Pennsylvania House for Montgomery County. As I was still getting to
know our district, he did not hesitate to welcome me to his church and
to introduce me to his neighborhood, which perfectly encompassed his
warmth and unwavering commitment to the Antioch community.
Each week, he faithfully leads his congregation in beautiful services
with song, prayer, and a welcoming spirit to all. He is a man of family
and of faith.
Yet, his devotion does not stop there. Pastor Douglas has made
Antioch Baptist Church an integral part of the surrounding community as
well, a home for town halls and community gatherings, again, where all
are welcome, including me.
I am just one of the so many people who have been guided by his
grace, his faith, his leadership, and his friendship, which will
continue to grow and shape North Hills and the greater community for
years to come.
Congratulations to Pastor Douglas on 30 years of hard work, faith,
and joy. The Antioch family and I are blessed to know him.
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