Prayers, best wishes pour in for Patrick Manning

PNM chairman Franklin Khan expressed the party’s deep sense of sadness at Manning’s hospitalisation. “The People’s National Movement has always loved and revered Mr Manning as one of its outstanding leaders. He continues to serve the party and national community as a Member of Parliament,” said Khan.

Khan offered best wishes from himself, the leadership and mass membership of the PNM for a speedy recovery to Manning. He said the party extended its personal support to Manning’s wife, Hazel, and his two sons, Brian and David.

“The PNM is a praying party, and I am sure there are thousands of our supporters that are currently engaged in prayer for him. Again, we wish him a speedy recovery and God’s richest blessings.”

COP leader Prakash Ramadhar offered the party’s solemn prayers for Manning to fully recover from his latest medical challenge, in a statement titled, “Get well soon, Mr Manning”.

“Mr. Manning is one of our nation’s most experienced parliamentarians who has served his constituents and country with great determination and sacrifice,” said Ramadhar. “His medical setback reminds us of the need for all citizens, especially those in public life, to be aware of the requirements of a healthy body.”

He urged everyone to avoid stress, manage our time properly, eat properly and be active. “Have regular medical check-ups and follow the instructions of your doctor. Prevention is better than any cure,” said Ramadhar. “May Almighty God Bless Mr Manning, Mrs Manning and their loved ones in this challenging time.”

Point Fortin MP Paula Gopee-Scoon, a Manning loyalist, told Newsday, the illness was surprising given Manning’s healthy lifestyle of diet and exercise and a “balanced life”. Manning had been in good humour when she had seen him last Friday in the House of Representatives, she recalled, being his usual self and chatting with PNM MPs.

Tobago House of Assembly (THA) leader, Orville London, in a statement hoped Manning would recover just as he had beaten his past medical challenges.

Online, the incident was reported on Manning’s Facebook page. “Manning last night experienced what appeared to be a stroke. He was taken to the San Fernando General Hospital where tests were conducted,” said a post. “There is as yet no confirmation. He was kept overnight for observation. The public will be advised further as information becomes available.”

After this post, many supporters offered their support to Manning. Within 12 hours of being posted, some 251 persons expressed their approval for the post, and

222 had posted their own comments of sympathy and support. Many persons posted very intense prayers for his recovery, such as C Joseph saying, “I declare the healing balm of Jesus upon your life. He will restore you to full strength!”.