[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 121 (Thursday, July 23, 2026)]
[House]
[Pages H5189-H5190]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING JACK PERME

  (Ms. HOULAHAN asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. HOULAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of my 
constituent Jack Perme. I first met Jack several years ago in 
Westchester, where he was volunteering to help bring clean water to 
people in need, and that generosity would come to define his life.
  Jack began experiencing symptoms of spinocerebellar ataxia as a 
child. This progressive neurodegenerative disease impaired his 
coordination, his balance, his speech, and his ability to swallow. It 
ultimately took his life at just 28 years old.
  As the ataxia progressed, Jack had to give up driving and the many 
hobbies that he loved, including blacksmithing, woodworking, and 3D 
modeling. Yet, when Jack discovered that he could ride a recumbent 
bike, he regained a sense of freedom and independence. He immediately 
set out to share it.
  In 2024, Jack founded Moving Forward for Ataxia. He rode thousands of 
miles, raised more than $55,000, and provided 17 recumbent bikes to 
people across the country.
  My heart is with Jack's parents, Monica and David; his stepmother, 
Leslie; his siblings, Grant and Ricky; and everyone who loved him and 
was touched by his bravery and his generosity.

[[Page H5190]]

  Jack's message to all of us was very simple: Build connections, be 
kind, and whatever struggle you face, keep moving forward.
  That is exactly what his legacy will help others to do.

                          ____________________