National Women's Health Week

Floor Speech

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Ms. DEAN of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, National Women's Health Week empowers women and girls to prioritize their unique health journeys.

A crucial part of that journey is education, prevention, and early detection for illness and disease, like ovarian cancer.

Globally, ovarian cancer is the eighth most common cancer among women, most of whom are over 60 years old. In the United States, the American Cancer Society estimates that this year, more than 19,000 women will receive a diagnosis of ovarian cancer, and more than 12,000 women will die from ovarian cancer.

It is a frequently missed or misdiagnosed disease, there is no routine screening, and it is not always included as part of an annual gynecological exam like other cancers of the female reproductive system.

I saw this firsthand with my mother's diagnosis and death, within just weeks of her diagnosis of ovarian cancer many years ago, how devastating ovarian cancer can be and how fast it can claim a loved one. We must do better for our mothers, our grandmothers, our grandchildren, our sisters, and our friends.

We must raise awareness, bolster research and education, and pass legislation that prioritizes women's healthcare and saves lives. Our health and our stories matter. Honoring Rev. Dr. John E. Douglas

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Ms. DEAN of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I pause now to start with something that is of local color and recognizes a man of faith.

I rise today to recognize Reverend Dr. John E. Douglas of Antioch Baptist Church in North Hills, Pennsylvania, as he celebrates 30 years as a pastor.

I first met Pastor Douglas a dozen years ago when I served in the Pennsylvania House for Montgomery County. As I was still getting to know our district, he did not hesitate to welcome me to his church and to introduce me to his neighborhood, which perfectly encompassed his warmth and unwavering commitment to the Antioch community.

Each week, he faithfully leads his congregation in beautiful services with song, prayer, and a welcoming spirit to all. He is a man of family and of faith.

Yet, his devotion does not stop there. Pastor Douglas has made Antioch Baptist Church an integral part of the surrounding community as well, a home for town halls and community gatherings, again, where all are welcome, including me.

I am just one of the so many people who have been guided by his grace, his faith, his leadership, and his friendship, which will continue to grow and shape North Hills and the greater community for years to come.

Congratulations to Pastor Douglas on 30 years of hard work, faith, and joy. The Antioch family and I are blessed to know him.

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