Susan Collins

Most people probably never expect to have to ask for help from a United States senator. As a young adult, I certainly didn’t — until I found myself running out of options.

I am a commercial pilot and aviation student working towards becoming an airline pilot. When I was six months old, I received a liver transplant. Obtaining and renewing my Federal Aviation Administration medical certificate — which I need to be able to fly — has consistently been a difficult process.

After constantly being wrapped up in federal red tape and having countless delays that affected my education, I reached out to Sen. Collins’ office. Her staff listened to my situation and worked directly with the FAA to help resolve issues that I had struggled to navigate on my own. Their help has allowed me to continue my education and keep pursuing the career that I have been working towards.

We often judge our elected officials by the legislation they author, the votes they cast and the speeches they give. Those things matter, but so does what happens when an ordinary Mainer picks up the phone and asks for help.

When I needed help, Sen. Collins was there for me. My experiences with Collins showed me that constituent service is more than something listed on a website. It can have a lasting impact on someone’s life. As a Mainer, that’s the kind of representation that I value — and one of the reasons that Sen. Collins has earned my support.