"Ronald Reagan's well documented final battles with Alzheimer's disease were fought with the same conviction and courage that his many public battles were fought"
- William L. Jenkins
About this Quote
This quote by William L. Jenkins reflects on the last years of former President Ronald Reagan's life, particularly his fight with Alzheimer's illness. Jenkins acknowledges that Reagan's struggles with this incapacitating illness were well documented, meaning that they were extensively known and taped. In spite of this, Jenkins highlights that Reagan faced this fight with the exact same conviction and nerve that he displayed in his lots of public fights. This declaration speaks to Reagan's steadfast determination and strength, even in the face of a devastating disease. It also works as a pointer of the durability and bravery that Reagan displayed throughout his life, both in his individual battles and in his role as a public figure.
"One has children in the expectation of dying before them. In fact, you want to make damn sure you die before them, just as you plant a tree or build a house knowing, hoping that it will outlive you. That's how the human species has done as well as it has"
"Well, I think any time you delve into this sort of religion, politics, as you well know, you're going to, you know, touch a few nerves. I wasn't - now - and this is the honest truth"