Dr. Natalie A. Manley, MD, MPH, is a beacon of compassion and expertise in geriatric care. As Immanuel Pathways’ Medical Director, she manages the intricate needs of older adults, including those facing complex medical conditions and dementia. With her extensive background from the University of Nebraska College of Medicine and specialized geriatrics training from the University of Utah, Natalie is dedicated to providing care that respects each participant’s values and preferences.
But beyond her impressive credentials and dedication lies a story of a “fan girl” whose personal and professional lives came together in a spectacular way. At the 2024 Celebrating ONE Immanuel event, Natalie’s life-long love for British music took center stage, thanks to a special appearance by her favorite musician, Peter Noone of Herman’s Hermits.
Natalie said her connection to Herman’s Hermits is deeply personal.
“When I was a kid, my parents were musicians, so I liked the kind of music they listened to. I liked all the British music … but Herman’s Hermits was my favorite,” she recalled with a smile.
Her fandom wasn’t a fleeting interest; it was a defining part of her youth. “Leaning on the Lamp Post,” “Silhouettes,” “I’m Henry VIII, I Am,” and “This Door Swings Both Ways” are among her favorite songs.
“I had all of their records and listened to them all the time. I had them all memorized.”
Fast-forward to April 2024. The Immanuel Community Foundation announced that Herman’s Hermits, starring Peter Noone, would be the headlining entertainment for the 2024 Celebrating ONE Immanuel event.
For Natalie, this was not just another event; it was another chance to meet a personal hero.
“When I found out Peter Noone was going to be there, I texted all my friends, and they were like, ‘Natalie, you are so weird,’” she laughed.
Determined to make the most of this opportunity, Natalie approached Emily Tonniges, Executive Director of the Immanuel Community Foundation, to discuss a meet-and-greet.
“I said, ‘You HAVE to make sure I get to meet him; this is imperative. I am such a big fan,’” Natalie said.
Emily came through, and Natalie’s dream of a “backstage pass” came to fruition.
Before the Celebrating One Immanuel event on May 14, Natalie – carrying her favorite record and the picture of the duo from the Nebraska State Fair – met Peter again.
The experience was nothing short of magical for the Pathways’ Medical Director.
“I went fan girl crazy,” she admitted. “I started listening to the music again, and my kids now like his songs, too. I even asked him if he was going to sing my favorite song, ‘This Door Swings Both Ways.’”
For Natalie, the song’s message — life isn’t always perfect, but it’s about making the most of it — resonates deeply. Her experience with Peter was more than just a chance to meet a celebrity; it was a poignant reminder of how personal passions can align with professional achievements.
“It felt like life had come full circle,” she said. As a child, Natalie had visited nursing homes with her family, sparking a desire to improve the experience for older adults.
“I wanted to grow up and make this a better experience for older people,” she said. Now, as a respected medical professional, she is fulfilling that early dream every day.
Her backstage encounter was filled with memorable moments, including discovering a personal connection.
“I found out that his daughter is also named Natalie,” she said. “I told him my mom named me after Natalie Wood, and he mentioned he was friends with Natalie Wood. That was so cool.”
Natalie added that her fan experience during the Celebrating ONE Immanuel event also had its lighthearted moments, adding that the experience was so significant that it stands out as one of her favorite days ever.
“It was super fun dancing with one of the participants to ‘Mrs. Brown, You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter,’” she said. “I was so glad that some of the participants were dancing along because I needed somebody to dance with.”
At Immanuel Pathways, Natalie’s blend of compassion, expertise, and personal enthusiasm enriches the lives of those she cares for. Her ability to bring joy and positivity into her professional role, just as Peter’s music brought joy to her life, is a testament to her character. The Celebrating ONE Immanuel event was a celebration of achievements and a reminder of the power of passion and dedication in every aspect of life.
“It’s so cool to be in this stage of my life where I have this amazing job with all these amazing people I work with,” she said. “… It’s so cool to work in a place that really values older adults and recognizes all the special things they have to offer.”