Nolan Wells has been on my mind all weekend.
Not just because my timeline has been flooded with videos, pictures and countless tributes, from friends, family and teammates, to the tall, almond-eyed teenager with the charismatic smile.
It’s the feeling of sadness mixed with heartbreak and bewilderment whenever Nolan Wells’ parents are being interviewed to recall what they do know (he hung out with friends at Horn Island to celebrate the Fourth) and what they don’t know (why did Nolan stay on the island alone? How did his friends have his phone and car?) remains a cruel, dark maze of uncertainty.
A tortious mystery that sadly we have encountered more than once, or even twice.
What is known for sure, with the utmost certainty, is we will hold each other down and this weekend made that crystal clear.
A few good men stepped up to take the burden off Nolan Wells’ parents to cover expenses.
Our forever MVP Colin Kaepernick had Nolan Wells’ body flown to DC to complete an independent autopsy through his nonprofit, Know Your Rights Camp.
Tyler Perry has offered to cover the funeral costs for the family.
The family started a GoFundMe; money raised will go towards celebration of life services for Nolan Wells, and the biggest donation, $100,000, is from Film producer Byron Allen and comedian Lil Rel with a $1,000 contribution.
As devastating as this story is, this weekend was a bittersweet reminder that we are stronger together than we are apart, so let’s continue to unite as a village around this family.
And keep shouting Nolan Wells’ name until the truth of his demise reverberates back.
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