Post-Traumatic Growth

Floor Speech

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Mr. SMUCKER. Madam Speaker, thank my friend for yielding a few minutes of the Special Order.

I rise today, Madam Speaker, to honor the life and memory of Mr. Randy Alan Walker of Ephrata, Pennsylvania, who passed away last month after a 10-year battle with ALS. Randy had an exceptional impact on the lives that he touched.

Madam Speaker, I had the opportunity to meet with Randy and his wife, Lisa, earlier this year just days before Randy's passing. Randy shared with me his story in a letter that he wrote.

ALS is a devastating disease that takes a tremendous toll on those living with the disease as well as their families and caregivers. Despite this disease, Randy continued to live life to the fullest.

Following his diagnosis, he created a bucket list of all of the things he wished to accomplish, and he managed to complete every item on it.

In his own words, Randy told me his most exhilarating experience was skydiving with his daughter and his fondest memory was watching his son graduate high school and college.

Madam Speaker, Randy shared with me what his life was like with ALS. In his letter, he said: You can be me for just 1 hour. Get comfy on your couch. Put your phone down and remote out of reach. Standing for any reason is against the rules. I can't stand. Neither can you. Now, for the hard part, when you get an itch, and you will, there is no scratching. If you survive the hour, kudos to you. Imagine that 24/7. Welcome to my world.

Randy and his wife, Lisa, were tireless champions for individuals affected by ALS, traveling to Harrisburg and Washington, D.C., to share their story and advocate for a cure.

Their efforts extended beyond legislative halls as they supported ALS research initiatives, raised public awareness, and provided unwavering emotional and practical support to families affected by the disease. Through their dedicated activism, Randy and Lisa have profoundly impacted the ALS community.

Randy graduated from Ephrata High School in 1982 where he played football, baseball, and was on the diving team. Following graduation, Randy joined the Marine Corps and served until 1985.

We extend our gratitude to Randy for his service and dedication to our country. He was a loving husband to Lisa, a father to Calvin and Victoria, a grandfather to two, and a friend to all. Randy will be deeply missed.

We wish those who are grieving comfort and give thanks for the opportunity to know Randy who positively impacted so many people during his 60 years.

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