Reagan's Toughest Foe

AS A HEALTH-CARE PROFESSIONAL WORKing with our senior population, I find Ronald Reagan's admission of his developing confusion from Alzheimer's disease an extremely admirable act ((Health, Nov. 14)). In a society where we worship youth and strength, Reagan again has shown what true courage is by admitting to the frailties of aging. I hope that we begin to accept and cope with the realities of our aged with the grace and candor of our former President. Children may be the future of our country, but old age is our future.

Jeff Sylvester

Reston, Virginia

AOL: ThreeChrds

THE NEWS OF REAGAN'S CONTRACTING Alzheimer's disease came as no news at all to this American expatriate. That this actor President had lost the plot was one of the reasons for my emigration. I can see American lawyers trying to outdo one another with the Reagan defense: My client is not guilty, your honor, because he forgets things and therefore cannot be held responsible for his actions. I've often wondered how revisionist historians would rewrite the Reagan years, and now I know.

Edward D. Webber

Dee Why, Australia

I AM SADDENED TO HEAR OF REAGAN'S condition. Putting politics aside, the man was President of this country for eight years, and whether you like him isn't the issue. What is clear is the man's courage to tell the public that he has this disease. My heart and deepest feelings go out to him; he needs the country that he led so well for eight years to show him the way. We owe you, Ron; we'll be here for you!

Matt Taylor

Lebanon, Ohio

Via America Online

RONALD REAGAN IS A LIVING LEGEND FOR many outside the U.S., including the Poles and others in Eastern Europe. Reagan was an outstanding personality who destroyed communism with his strong policy. Who knows what might have happened to Eastern Europe if it had not been for Reagan? For many people, he is a fighter. I believe he will fight this battle to the end, supported by millions of people all over the world.

Isabella Romatowska

Sundbyberg, Sweden