The publication is reproduced in full below:
IN RECOGNITION OF THE LATE NATHAN WENDEL GRAY
______
HON. MATT CARTWRIGHT
of pennsylvania
in the house of representatives
Wednesday, February 9, 2022
Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Nathan Gray, who lost his battle with childhood cancer on January 6, 2022. In his eight years of life, Nathan's courage, positivity, and bright smile inspired many, raised awareness for childhood cancer, and banded a community together, inspiring others to do good.
Nathan was born on July 16, 2013 to Jeffrey and Patricia Gray, and he was the beloved brother of ten year old Jeffrey and six year old Natalie. When Nathan was two years old, he was diagnosed with Wilms tumor, a rare form of kidney cancer. He fought cancer with the bravery of a superhero, enduring 221 doses of chemotherapy, 26 surgeries, 33 days of radiation, an oral inhibitor, and more than 100 blood platelet transfusions. Despite the challenges of his illness, Nathan attended St. Nicholas-St. Mary's School and enjoyed swimming, playing video games, and riding his bike.
Nathan's bravery and joy garnered local attention in August 2016 when the Facebook page ``Nathan the Super Hero'' was started by his family lo document his battle with cancer. Thousands of people have followed the page, sharing words of encouragement. celebrating the joyful moments, and offering comfort and support during the challenging ones. Nathan quickly became a local celebrity, inspiring members of the community with his infectious simile and relentless courage. The community rallied around Nathan. cheering him on and making him feel special. In February 2020, the Wilkes-Barre Area Wolfpack named him honorary team captain before they played their inaugural home game at Wilkes-Barre Memorial Stadium. In August 2020, Wilkes-Barre police and fire department vehicles paraded past his home while well-wishers delivered gifts, and, in December 2021, carolers visited Nathan to spread some Christmas cheer. Just last month, the Wilkes-Barre council unanimously voted to rename the Barney Farms Park in Nathan's honor.
Nathan's family's willingness to be open and share their son's experiences with Wilms tumor helped shed important light on the issue of childhood cancer and the need for more aggressive research and increased funding for prevention and cures--so that children like Nathan do not have to suffer.
I am honored to recognize the life and legacy of this brave young man. Nathan's memory will live on with his beloved family and friends and the large community that he inspired with his determination and positivity.
____________________
SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 26
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