Vigil a Tribute to Nathan Manning

On Saturday night, I attended a candlelight vigil for a young man by the name of Nathan Manning. At the vigil, members of the community came together under the Normal Heights sign on Adams Avenue to celebrate Nathan's life and mourn his passing. Nathan, who was a resident of Normal Heights, was shot and killed on Thursday, May 20, 2010, by a police detective. When Nathan was killed, he was experiencing a psychotic manic episode as a result of bipolar disorder.

Although I did not know Nathan personally, I was able to feel the emotion of those assembled, about 50 strong. I learned that Nathan was an avid guitar player and songwriter and also taught guitar to his young friends. He was well liked and well loved.

When I first arrived, I saw my friend, A., who had been close friends with Nathan. I also met Nathan's father and connected with another gentleman, Mr. R., who is a member of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) North Coastal, who serves on the County Mental Health Board. Mainly, I stood by myself and took it all in. I felt sadness for the family, his friends, and for the horrible nature of the tragedy.

Holding our candles, we walked in procession from the Normal Heights sign down Adams Avenue to the site where Nathan was killed. At this point, a few young men brought out their instruments and began to honor Nathan with their music. I saw a friend from a bipolar support group. He had known Nathan and had talked to him the Monday before he died. He said, "Nathan was a good listener. He was a good guy."

A hush fell, and the music stopped, and a few words were said. Nathan's father, brother, and A., all spoke, emphasizing their love for Nathan. Mr. R. spoke as well, conveying the message that Nathan's death not be in vain, but that some positive social change can occur as a result of the tragedy.

The hope is that Nathan's death, given the passion of the people at the vigil, may prove to be the catalyst for policy changes within law enforcement. With additional training and perhaps change in basic practices, the behavior of people with bipolar disorder can be better understood and their lives truly protected.

The evening continued, a peaceful and respectful tribute to the life of Nathan Manning.

For more information about how to get involved with bipolar support activities, visit bipolarhope.blogspot.com.