Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize ''National Breast Cancer Awareness Month'' during its 25th anniversary year.

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month has been at the forefront of raising awareness of breast cancer issues and has continued to evolve along with the national dialogue on breast cancer.

I am a strong advocate for organizations that are dedicated to educating and empowering women to take charge of their own breast health by practicing regular self-breast exams and scheduling annual mammograms.

In my district in Orange County, California, I am proud of the numerous health fairs that promote prevention among our ethnic populations, who tend to be more reluctant to get examined than other populations.

My own staff has been involved in this effort. Laura Martinez, my casework supervisor, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006. She underwent a mastectomy, received radiation treatment and is currently taking Tamoxifin.

She has been involved with the American Cancer Society, has shared her testimony, and formed ''Laura's Lifeline'' team to Race for the Cure.

I recognize that many strides have been made in breast cancer awareness and treatment but there still remains much to be accomplished.