Eighteen years ago, Sen. Susan Collins volunteered to walk door to door in Farmington with me during the first of my three campaigns for the Maine Senate.

She’s walking now with 25,000-plus Mainers afflicted with Alzheimer’s, and with me and thousands of caregivers. Her family knows the pain.

Collins’s informative Kennebec Journal opinion page piece, “Finally, a national plan to combat Alzheimer’s” on May 20, shines light on her considerable commitment to curbing the disease.

Collins is Senate co-chairwoman of the bipartisan Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s disease. Her column heralds optimism borne by research, such as that involving Bexarotene.

It’s time for all of us to open minds and hearts to the agony of Alzheimer’s. I’m a caregiver for my wife of 51 years who has been challenged by the disease for 10 years. She is 74.

Collins writes: “It is an agonizing experience to look into the eyes of a loved one only to receive a confused look in return.”

Caregivers grasp the gist of the adage, “love is kin to pity” when, for example, a husband and wife relationship evolves into parent and child.

The burnout rate of caregivers is significant.

At age 81, I’m grateful for Spectrum Generations support group meetings, involvement of family and aid of friends.

Thanks also to those who donate to Maine’s Alzheimer’s Association, 170 U.S. Route 1, Falmouth, ME 04105.

Two years ago, my poetry book sales earned $3,500 for the chapter. Donations are its principal income source.

Cheers and hugs to the dedicated staff at the Gardiner Alzheimer’s Care Center where Judy is a day patient, twice a week.

Their positive programs dignify patients and allow caregivers to gain supportive breathing room.

Thanks to Collins for walking our walk.

John Benoit

Manchester

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