[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 162 (2016), Part 2]
[House]
[Page 2211]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                NATIONAL RARE EYE DISEASE AWARENESS DAY

  (Mr. FITZPATRICK asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute.)
  Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce my resolution 
expressing support for the designation of February 28, 2016, as 
National Rare Eye Disease Awareness Day. In solidarity with those 
living with rare eye conditions and blindness, I am introducing it in 
braille.
  Joining me today is the Smedley family from my district in Bucks 
County, Pennsylvania, whose sons, Michael and Mitchell, suffer from a 
rare eye condition which has caused them to lose their sight at a very 
young age.
  But this has not stopped them from pursuing their dreams. Michael 
serves in his high school student government and is a member of the 
track team. Mitchell is on the wrestling team and performs in school 
plays.
  National Rare Eye Disease Awareness Day will highlight exceptional 
individuals like Michael and Mitchell as they overcome challenges and 
show us true inspiration.
  In doing so, this day will increase awareness for all rare eye 
diseases and conditions that lead to blindness as well as the need for 
increased funding for research and for accessibility of treatments.
  As a member of the congressional Rare Disease Caucus and as a voice 
for the Smedleys and the millions more living with blindness, I am 
proud to introduce this resolution today. I urge my colleagues' 
support.

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