On Tuesday, December 12, 2006, U.S. Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX 26) was honored at a luncheon hosted by the Children's Medical Center of Dallas at their Annual Recognition for Lawmakers.

Children's Legislative Initiatives Nurturing Children (LINC) identifies and recognizes North Texas officeholders who provide leadership on issues that impact children. This event is a Joint Board Meeting held once a year. Past recipients of this award have been U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, U.S. Representatives Ralph Hall, Eddie Bernice Johnson, and Texas Senator Jane Nelson.

The following is a copy of Congressman Burgess thank you remarks from the luncheon:

“Thank you for this great honor. You know, the Children's Medical Center of Dallas has always been near and dear to my heart. Even though you are not located in my Congressional District, your excellent, and might I add, well-deserved reputation brings honor to all North Texans and admiration from across the globe.

“As a physician, I am all the more mindful of the talent and responsibility that often befalls Children’s Medical Center. At a science hearing in December of 2003, I remember heralding the news of how Children’s Medical Center of Dallas was the perfect example of where the intersection of mechanical engineering, bioengineering, pharmacology, medicine and surgery quietly and completely joined together to give two young children a chance at a much brighter future. Of course, I am referring to Ahmed and Mohamed Ibrahim the two formerly conjoined twins that underwent a remarkable separation procedure. Without you, that miracle would not have been possible.

“Your work is remarkable. From the doctors, the nurses, the technicians, to theoretical and practical professionals who developed the specialized operating room table, you all represent the best of medicine. Your work, quite simply, makes me proud and makes my job easier.

“In October of this year, President Bush signed into law H.R. 5574, the Children’s Hospital Graduate Medical Education Reauthorization Act. The legislation continues a vital children’s health program that ensures the training of pediatricians and pediatric subspecialists in the nation’s children’s teaching hospitals and authorizes $330 million through 2011 for this important program.

“I sit on the Energy and Commerce Committee where the bill originated under our Health Subcommittee Chairman Nathan Deal. I can confidently say it was one of the easiest votes I have ever cast. There are few other entities so deserving.

“You make sure the “Apples of Our Eyes” are given the best care possible. With grace and dignity you help the smallest and purest of us all. So to receive this honor today means a great deal to me as a Member of Congress, as a physician, but most importantly, as a father. Thank you.”