[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 179 (Tuesday, October 28, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1010-E1011]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING KATHERINE STOKES AS ONE OF CALIFORNIA'S 8TH CONGRESSIONAL 
                      DISTRICTS WOMEN OF THE YEAR

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. JOHN GARAMENDI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 28, 2025

  Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Katherine Stokes, 
recognized as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of 
the Year. Katherine is an innovator, entrepreneur, and community leader 
whose compassionate vision has reshaped how care, education, and 
service are delivered across California. As the founder and CEO of 
Spongies Comfort, a medical innovation company based in California, 
Katherine has brought humanity and creativity to healthcare. 
Katherine's invention of the Spongies Heart Armrest, a reusable, 
medical-grade cushion is now used in oncology, infusion, and radiology 
departments across leading hospitals such as Stanford, Kaiser, and 
UCSF. Her simple yet transformative design has improved patient 
comfort, reduced anxiety, and supported healthcare providers in 
delivering more compassionate care. Beyond her entrepreneurial 
achievements, Katherine serves on the Board of Directors of A Loving 
Organization Consortium (ALOC), a nonprofit dedicated to transforming 
healthcare systems from fear-based to love-based operations. She is 
also the founder of Innovation Rewards in School (IRIS), an educational 
initiative that teaches middle school students creativity, 
entrepreneurship, and purpose-driven leadership. Locally, Katherine 
coaches youth soccer for the Solano County Surf Soccer Club and 
continues to donate Spongies cushions to under-resourced clinics, 
children's hospitals, and veteran care facilities, providing comfort 
where it is needed most. Her latest project, a purple Heart Armrest and 
under-knee wedge, designed specifically for veterans, honors service 
members with dignity and care. Through every endeavor, Katherine 
exemplifies integrity, empathy, and resilience. She approaches every 
challenge with grace, turning obstacles into opportunities to serve. On 
behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is 
my privilege to recognize Katherine Stokes for her groundbreaking 
innovation, compassionate leadership, and unwavering dedication to 
uplifting others.

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