Pedal for Impact

Floor Speech

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Mr. BEAN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, we all know why a bicycle can't stand up by itself. It is because it is two tired. We also go through life being too tired sometimes, but for two married veterans in northeast Florida, they are overcoming being too tired because they, Mr. Speaker, are on a mission.

Ashton and Casey Kroner are undertaking an amazing journey. This June, they will leave Green Cove Springs, Florida, and travel all 737 miles here to Washington, D.C., to advocate for change on bicycles.

They call it Pedal for Impact. Casey is currently battling cancer. His journey reflects what too many veterans experience: a health system that should work better. His story is not about blame but about awareness, urgency, and getting this right for the next veteran.

Mr. Speaker, veterans face higher cancer risks due to toxic exposures, yet screenings still rely largely on age rather than exposure history. That gap leads to delays, difficult treatments, and outcomes we can and must improve.

Ashton and Casey are seeking solutions. As they ride through Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, and Virginia, they carry a simple message: Screen earlier, detect sooner, and save lives.

In a town where we talk about moving the needle and where we all talk about leadership, they show us that moving the needle is sometimes accomplished by moving the pedals and shifting into high gear.

Mr. Speaker, sometimes we are all too tired, but Ashton and Casey show us that this is no moment to squeeze the brakes. We must keep moving forward for our veterans and in the fight against cancer.

Godspeed on their mission and journey.

Pedal on, Ashton and Casey.

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