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Honoring Rachel Collett

Volume
Volume 158 , Number 9
Pages
Pages E52
Legislative Body
Extensions of Remarks
Date
Mon, Jan. 23, 2012

Rep. Thaddeus McCotter

legislator photo
Party
R
State
MI

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge the extraordinary life and decidedly courageous outlook of Rachel Collett upon her graduation from Livonia Churchill High School.

On January 13, 2012, Rachel, resplendent in her red cap and gown, rose from her wheelchair and walked across the stage to accept her high school diploma. After ceremoniously moving the tassel from right to left, she triumphantly tossed her cap into the air as family, friends and school officials applauded.

Rachel Collett has taught much more than she has learned. She was diagnosed with osteosarcoma at the age of 11 and though since the initial diagnosis she has been constantly been in some form of treatment but never remission, she has never let the disease define her. Rather, she focused on living and determined to schedule her treatment around life and not life around her treatment. She has resolved to make every moment worth remembering. Rachel was earned a Livonia Rotary Service Award, earned college credits while in high school, coached middle school cheerleading squads and was a member of the Churchill High School varsity cheerleading squad until this school year. She attended classes until October 2011 when the debilitating pain made it impossible to continue. Even then, the indomitable Miss Collett continued her schoolwork at home.

Rachel Collett is a remarkable young woman who reminds us longevity is never promised in this life. She has accepted what is and is determined to live the days God has given her striving to accomplish the goals she has set for herself. What we take for granted she fights for the opportunity to achieve.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and absolute privilege to recognize this incredibly inspiring young woman. For all she has endured, Rachel Collett still embraces life with an irrepressible smile. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the incomparable light she is to all who know her and in thanking her for all she has brought to our community and our country. Shine on, Rachel.