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Tampa Tribune

July 20, 2004

Reprinted with permission of the author. All rights reserved.

Baker Act Support

I would like to take this opportunity to thank The Tampa Tribune editorial staff for its support for the reform in the Baker Act. The editorials in support of the reform made a huge difference in making people aware of the need for reform.

On the horrific day Alan Mark Houseman, mistaken for a homeless person but in reality a schizophrenic off his medication, was killed by a Tampa police officer, we began our journey to make a difference for those in the same situation.  Our hands had been tied in the bureaucracy of laws meant to help the mentally ill, as we tried in vain over and over again to get the help he so desperately needed.

On our journey we have met many people who felt there was no way out. After making them aware of the changes the reform would make, there was hope where there once was none.

We grieve to this day for our loss, but we are grateful that Alan’s life and death have made a difference for those who once had no hope.

Ceida Houseman

Clearwater