Editor:

I am writing to strongly encourage voters to re-elect Representative Gary Connor of Kennebunk. Even though I am out of his constituency, Representative Connor was there when my family, and many other families in Maine, needed him. He co-sponsored our bill, “An Act to Protect Vulnerable Children”, and was instrumental in getting the bill to vote and passed. 

My son has severe allergies to peanuts and nuts and is an asthmatic. He was unable to participate fully in our local Parks and Recreation Program because of concern that municipal employees were not permitted to administer medication in the event of a medical emergency. Representative Connor worked cooperatively with municipalities and families to pass legislation to clarify that municipal employees and volunteers, with the proper training, may administer prescribed emergency medication if a life-threatening reaction and/or asthma attack occurs. Representative Connor had an insight into the situation and understood the ease of administering this life-saving medication because of his knowledge as a nurse. His position on the Health and Human Services Committee allowed him to voice his knowledge and to effectively explain the need for the bill. Now that “An Act to Protect Vulnerable Children” is a law, many parents and children in Maine can rest easier. They now find comfort in knowing that trained municipal staff and volunteers may administer emergency medication to children in their care if a life-threatening allergic reaction or asthma attack occurs. Much of the thanks can go to Representative Gary Connor for opening the door of inclusion to so many children in Maine.

I am very impressed with the character of a man who cared enough to go the extra mile to help someone out of his constituency. I am also impressed with a man who I saw working diligently side-by-side with Republicans and Democrats in the House on other matters which led to agreements about what was right and fair for Maine people. That truly says something about the man behind the title of Representative and I strongly encourage you to place him back in the House where he can be a champion for your cares and concerns.

Lynn Kelley

Saco