Laura Rivers’ June 13 letter — titled “This month, join fight against Alzheimer’s” — recognized June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. It used the occasion to thank Sen. Susan Collins for “making Alzheimer’s such a large priority” on her agenda.

The letter explains the detail she and Collins discussed of financial and emotional impact on Maine families from Alzheimer’s. Fifteen million Americans provide unpaid care of loved ones challenged by the disease.

I’ve written Collins along similar meaningful lines. Too, in 1994, I expressed gratitude to the senator for time spent in Farmington’s stores and streets, campaigning with me in my first Senate term.

Much thanks to Rivers for her timely invitation to the public to “share our stories of Alzheimer’s and come together against this disease.”

My wife of 55 years, Judy, is challenged 16 years by Alzheimer’s and two years by kidney malfunction; she’s in the end stages of both. She’s also a breast cancer survivor of 36 years, following major surgery. Her inner love-strength shows through.

I cared for her at home a bit over 14 years. When she qualified for nursing home care, Judy and I found our doors 27 miles apart. She’s a 19-month resident at an Auburn facility, receiving whole-hearted, attentive care. I visit her Sunday after church, with Communion, Wednesday and Friday. I feed her lunch and take her to outstanding music programs at the home. Our family of three children and six grandchildren visit Judy regularly despite significant mileage.

River’s letter advocated for Alzheimer’s research. Three years ago, I self-published a chapbook of verse (doggerel at best) that raised $3,500 donated to Maine’s Alzheimer’s Association.

Laura Rivers’ caring letter reflects well on her.

John Benoit

Manchester