Remembering Rika
Aug. 13th, 2004 11:11 amTwo years ago today, Rika Hirata, my best friend when I lived in New York, committed suicide.

I don't really want to talk in detail about the circumstances of Rika's death here. I'll just say that it happened because she had a severe bipolar condition, and went through a series of misfortunes, and wasn't supported as she should have been by the people around her. Rika should still be here, and for me she is still here. Shortly before she died she told me 'I will always be with you'. She was right. But that doesn't stop me missing her.
The photo shows Rika eating dumplings with me at our favourite cafe, the Dumpling Inn on Eldridge Street, New York, February 3rd, 2001.

I don't really want to talk in detail about the circumstances of Rika's death here. I'll just say that it happened because she had a severe bipolar condition, and went through a series of misfortunes, and wasn't supported as she should have been by the people around her. Rika should still be here, and for me she is still here. Shortly before she died she told me 'I will always be with you'. She was right. But that doesn't stop me missing her.
The photo shows Rika eating dumplings with me at our favourite cafe, the Dumpling Inn on Eldridge Street, New York, February 3rd, 2001.