September 18th is an important day in my life. I've spoken to many on many occasions about receiving a kidney transplant from my sister Rita. This morning was the sixth anniversary of that marvelous gift that my sister gave to me that actually saved my life six years ago this morning. So I stand here publicly and thank my marvelous, saintly sister for that marvelous gift, for that great sacrifice.

My sister Rita had two young boys at home and her husband and family concerns to deal with, but yet, six years ago this morning, she offered herself and her kidney to save my life. My wife and I, we had a four-year-old daughter and a two-year-old son at home, not knowing what the consequences were going to be at this time of day six years ago. In 1977, it came to light that one day I would need a transplant. At that time, the specialist told me that they thought it would be within five years I would need a kidney transplant. I had strep throat as a baby and that is a lot of what our work is here today. We have unexpected consequences and great opportunities to help solve issues. In 1977, I was 23 years old when they gave me the news that within five years I would need that lifesaving transplant. I told the good Lord at that time that I would dedicate my life if he helped me get through that situation. I dedicate my life to the disabled and to those who are infirmed and those who deal with mental and physical issues every single day.

Now there has been a lot of talk the last year or so about what is important and what we should fund, who we should support, who we should speak up on behalf of, but I know every single day across this great state that there are people who offer that sacrifice as my sister did six years ago. Now they aren't going to be talking about a 4.3 or a 4.4 or a 4.6 percent income tax. While they're lying on that bed, many in their last moments are concerned about how their families are going to be taken care of. That is what this budget that we are dealing with is all about. I went through it personally. I understand that you aren't thinking about what's happening in Lansing when you're lying in those beds, understanding that that could be the last breath that you draw or the last moment you spend with your family.

Now I've heard that this is a historic time in Michigan, that these budget concerns that we have are a once-in-history opportunity. I disagree. I think that every single day we represent the great people of Michigan we have a unique and historic opportunity. I'd ask us to get down with the business at hand, to fund the appropriate programs in an appropriate and responsible level, but most of all, today I rise to thank my sister in front of you and the citizens of Michigan for the great gift that she gave my family and I, knowing full well that she wasn't the only one who gave that historic and gracious gift, but it happens every single day. I'd like to thank the Michigan residents who find it important to donate their organs for others as well.

If you would join me today, I would live to give my sister Rita a round of applause for her great sacrifice and gesture.