PRESIDENT RONALD REAGAN'S LETTER TO AMERICA ANNOUNCING HE HAS ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE

President Reagan Courageously Announces His Illness

Five years after leaving office, Reagan disclosed that he was suffering from Alzheimer's disease. The handwritten note concludes, "I now begin the journey that will lead me into the sunset of my life. I know that for America there will always be a bright dawn ahead."

November 5, 1994

My fellow Americans, I have recently been told that I am one of the millions of Americans who will be afflicted with Alzheimer's disease.

Upon learning this news, Nancy and I had to decide whether as private citizens we would keep this a private matter or whether we would make this news known in a public way. In the past, Nancy suffered from breast cancer and I had my cancer surgeries. We found through our open disclosures we were able to raise public awareness. We were happy that as a result, many more people underwent testing. They were treated in early stages and able to return to normal, healthy lives.

So now we feel it is important to share it with you. In opening our hearts, we hope this might promote greater awareness of this condition. Perhaps it will encourage a clearer understanding of the individuals and families who are affected by it.

At the moment I feel just fine. I intend to live the remainder of the years God gives me on this Earth doing the things I have always done. I will continue to share life's journey with my beloved Nancy and my family. I plan to enjoy the great outdoors and stay in touch with my friends and supporters.

Unfortunately, as Alzheimer's disease progresses, the family often bears a heavy burden. I only wish there was some way I could spare Nancy from this painful experience. When the time comes, I am confident that with your help she will face it with faith and courage.

In closing, let me thank you, the American people, for giving me the great honor of allowing me to serve as your president. When the Lord calls me home, whenever that day may be, I will leave with the greatest love for this country of ours and eternal optimism for its future.

I now begin the journey that will lead me into the sunset of my life. I know that for America there will always be a bright dawn ahead.

Thank you, my friends. May God always bless you.

Sincerely,
Ronald Reagan 


*For more information on President Reagan, visit The Reagan Foundation.

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

There are so many positive and inspiring moments throughout Ronald Reagan's life.  I am blessed to have been living in a time of such a great man. One of the most inspiring and courageous  is of his final outreach to America which marked the end of his public life.

Ronald Reagan had a special "connection" with America and the world.  He thought of himself as one of us.  In his final way to connect with us, he shared one of the most personal experiences he and his family were facing.  The courage and dignity that defined this great man, continued until his last breath.

It was difficult for me to post this, as I don't want to leave you with sadness, but his continued inspiration and courage.  

Rest in peace Mr. President.  Happy 100th birthday from your fellow Americans. We miss you terribly.

Michele 
"I realize that on the sea of life, I can't control the weather, but I can adjust my sails"  Unknown