Offering Condolences

Today I signed the condolence book; I think it was more for me than Nancy Reagan.

I am very sorry for your loss, and my heart aches for you. I was just devastated that you had to say your last goodbye in front of all the eyes of the world, but as always, you were graceful, poised and elegant. I hope that the incredible number of people who came out to pay their respects to a great man and a wonderful woman in some way helped to ease a bit of your pain.

I know how very cruel Alzheimer's can be. My grandfather died in 1994 after suffering from Alzheimer's for about six years. He was 84 and my grandmother, his constant companion and caregiver, was 83. In a way, they were a couple not unlike you and Mr. Reagan: he was a big man and she a tiny, delicate lady. And again like you, even though she was small, physically, she was a giant in terms of strength of will, determination and the steadiness of her love for her partner in life.

I've been greatly blessed to have seen two such fine examples of devotion, companionship, humor and the breathtaking melding of two hearts into one.

A few years ago, I bought your book, "I Love You, Ronnie." Writing that book had to have been a difficult undertaking for you, but it was wonderful that you did; you gave the entire world a whole new perspective of a great man and a glimpse into a fairy tale, showing the prince and the princess living their 'Happily Ever After'.

Ronald Reagan was the president that inspired me to take an interest in politics, drawing me out of self-absorbed youth into a passionate endorsement of this great nation. I admired Ronald Reagan and I think he made some great contributions to our country, not the least of which was the resurgence of patriotism and the re-establishment of family values. He made me proud to be an American.

Thank you for your grace, courage and wonderful example of the selflessness of love; you have touched my heart. I hope you will continue to use your influence to lobby for stem cell research; your efforts add to the legacy of your great husband.

I think there is a special place in heaven reserved for the two of you.

Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss.