In Honor of the Amazing Bicycle Journey of Shawne Camp

In Honor of the Amazing Bicycle Journey of Shawne Camp

HON. JACKIE SPEIER

OF CALIFORNIA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, today, a heroic journey came to a successful end when Millbrae, California's Shawne Camp parked his bicycle at the foot of the Washington Monument. In fewer than 50 days, Shawne has ridden from San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge to the nation's capital to raise funds and awareness for lung disease and the American Lung Association. In 2000 and 2001, Shawne suffered two complete collapses to his right lung. The condition, known as spontaneous pneumothorax, is extremely painful and can be fatal if not treated quickly. After multiple surgeries, Shawne was told that he was unlikely to ever return to full strength and should resign himself to a more sedate lifestyle. But the lifelong athlete wasn't accustomed to taking it easy and set out to prove that he could come back to full strength--and then some. With support from family, friends and his employer, Shawne turned his success at rehabilitation into a personal crusade to help others. On May 8, he headed north from the Golden Gate Bridge on a solo, self- funded bicycle ride across America to help others suffering from lung ailments. Over the past five weeks, Shawne has endured mountains, deserts, storms, fierce headwinds, angry dogs and even bears. But he's been supported by legions of devoted followers who have tracked his 3000 mile journey online and countless strangers along the way who have helped with shelter from the rain, a warm shower, or occasional meal. Madam Speaker, Shawne Camp is an inspiration to anyone who chooses to overcome adversity. His journey has advanced awareness for spontaneous pneumothorax and other lung afflictions and raised money for a very good cause. I am proud to call Shawne Camp my constituent and am delighted to introduce this inspiring young man to my colleagues in the United States Congress.