While I certainly agree with University of Maine commencement speaker Doug Hall that a revolution against our failed policies is needed, I have a minor difference of opinion concerning the health care industry, specifically his reference to Botox. Mr. Hall and the general public are mostly aware of the cosmetic use of Botox as an anti-wrinkling agent. But that is not the primary use for which Botox was developed, and there are many people, including me, who have life-changing illnesses that are helped by Botox. To us, it’s a miracle drug.

My particular illness, spasmodic dysphonia, attacks my vocal cords, and for all intents and purposes I am speechless. But Botox counters the illness and I can speak quite normally most of the time. I invite Mr. Hall to join me the next time I make my quarterly visit to Maine Medical Center in Portland for Botox injections. When that needle pierces my throat in search of a vocal cord muscle, it is improving my actual health, and trust me, I’m not doing it because of a few wrinkles.

Tommy Johnson

East Machias