April 08, 2013

Congresswoman Barbara Lee Mourns Passing of Annette Funicello

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 8, 2013

Contact: Carrie Adams (202) 225-2661

Washington, D.C.— Congresswoman Barbara Lee released to the following statement today upon the passing of Annette Funicello:

“I was so saddened to hear of Annette’s passing. For years, she was the “queen of teen,” and was a truly spectacular entertainer and icon that I loved as a child and teenager.

“Beyond her celebrity, she was an international champion for multiple sclerosis research. For me, both as a member of the Congressional Multiple Sclerosis Caucus and on a personal level, I am deeply committed to furthering Annette’s passion and work towards funding for research, finding the causes of MS, and broadening access to existing therapies. My sister was diagnosed with MS at an early age, and my heart goes out to Annette’s family as they mourn their loss.

“California and the entire country lost a bright star today.”

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Follow Barbara Lee on Facebook and Twitter at @RepBarbaraLee. To learn more, visit lee.house.gov.