I am an ardent fan of Erik Weihenmayer.  Little does he know that I, and millions of others with disabilities, have followed his trek not since May 23rd when he summited Mount Everest, but many months ago when I first learned of his expedition.  

Since 1926 when George Mallory was the first man to reach the top of Mount Everest, only about 1,000 people have successfully climbed it and more than 150 have died trying.  Not only has Erik conquered a mountain few people with 20/20 vision would ever fathom climbing, but he has also become an inspiring example of how to live life to its fullest.

At the young age of 32, Erik has already climbed Mount McKinley, Mount Kilimanjaro, and even the Polar Circus - a 3,000 foot ice waterfall.  Erik is the consummate athlete.  He is an acrobatic skydiver, scuba diver, long-distance biker, marathon runner, skier, mountaineer, and an ice and rock climber.  He has received countless awards from the Health and Fitness Association, the Glaucoma Foundation, ESPN and many more.  He has even carried the Olympic Torch.

But Erik’s successes reach far beyond physical challenges.  As an inspirational speaker and writer, Erik has shared the lessons learned in turning obstacles into opportunities.  He has pioneered not just for people with disabilities, but for all of us struggling to overcome our own tribulations.

What Erik shows us is that despite obstacles and challenges in all of our lives, each of us can make our own dreams come true.  I had dreamed of being a police officer my entire life, but that dream ended when I was shot at the age of 16.  With the help and support of my family, friends and the entire community, I was able to persevere and find a new dream, and join you as a Member of Congress.  Erik’s spirit and determination symbolize my philosophy for living life to its fullest: dream it; do; and dig a little deeper.

In his first inaugural address FDR said, “Happiness lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort.”  I cannot think of a person who embodies this spirit more than Erik Weihenmayer.  Today, we will pass a resolution to honor this perfect illustration of the accomplishments people with disabilities can make if they are provided with the proper resources, training and opportunities.  

Most important of all, this is a powerful example of the triumph of the human spirit.  I thank my colleagues for embracing and encouraging this drive to achieve, and valuing the need for all of us to experience this joy.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.