November 1, 2019 - Issue: Vol. 165, No. 174 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 1st Session

[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1395]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    IN RECOGNITION OF STEPHEN MARCUS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. WILLIAM R. KEATING

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, November 1, 2019

  Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the career 
and advocacy of Stephen Marcus as he is named 2019 Man of the Year by 
the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation.
  At a young age Stephen was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. Years 
later, he would also be diagnosed with Crohn's Disease. Rather than 
live quietly with these invisible diseases, Stephen chose to advocate 
for those who share his diagnosis.
  In 2010, Stephen, along with his son Jake, formed Team Intestinal 
Fortitude. Since its inception, Team Intestinal Fortitude has raised 
more than 1.2 million dollars for those who suffer from inflammatory 
bowel diseases.
  Later in 2012, Stephen became President of the Crohn's & Colitis 
Foundation of America's New England Chapter. While President he 
spearheaded the campaign to pass Massachusetts' Restroom Access Act. 
This law requires public establishments to grant a customer with 
eligible medical conditions access to the facilities on premise 
regardless of store policy. This important legislation helped raise 
awareness and give dignity to those who suffer from IBD. More recently, 
he has become head of the chapter's advocacy committee, where he is 
committed to working to combat unnecessary and reductive barriers 
between patients and their insurance companies.
  Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor the necessary work of Stephen 
Marcus and offer my sincere gratitude for his dedication to improving 
the lives of those suffering from IBD.
  I ask that my colleagues join me in thanking him for his service and 
wishing him all the best in the years to come.

                          ____________________