[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 15]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 21312]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                    PAYING TRIBUTE TO ADAM CAMPFIELD

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 5, 2004

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Adam 
Campfield, an extraordinary fourteen year old from my district, who has 
overcome seemingly impossible obstacles in order to compete in martial 
arts competitions. Adam is a true fighter, and someone other citizens 
can look to for inspiration and I am honored to stand before this body 
of Congress and this Nation today to recognize his accomplishments.
  Adam earned his black belt despite the fact that he lost his vision 
to cancer when he was six years old. Adam's coach Troy says that there 
was no doubt that Adam had the ability; his worries came from being 
able to teach him the material. Adam grew up in a supportive family 
that would not allow him to use the word can't and today not only is he 
a martial arts competitor, but he also plays tennis and participates in 
a ski program. Adam's blindness has only sharpened his other senses, so 
much so that Adam has said that if he were given the option of not 
going blind he might not choose to have his vision.
  Mr. Speaker, Adam Campfield is a strong, dedicated and gifted athlete 
who refuses to let life's impediments obstruct his physical activity. 
His persistent determination has taken him farther than anyone imagined 
and I am honored to stand here before this body and recognize the 
efforts of such a courageous young man. Good luck with your martial 
arts training, Adam, and I wish you all the best in your future 
endeavors.

                          ____________________