This is the story of a 55-year-old man originally from Vietnam, adopted during the war and raised in Denver. Despite a stable upbringing and military service (Army and Navy), his life took a sharp turn after his mother became ill and his family grew hostile. Following disputes over money and power of attorney, he was kicked out of the house and left homeless.
His honesty is striking. He’s aware of the damage he's done, but also of how systems (and family) failed him. He speaks about the “recidivism of homelessness,” and notes that some people don’t want to be housed. He doesn’t put himself in that category—he wants stability—but is worn down by how long it’s taken to get there. He ends by emphasizing personal responsibility: “You can’t just be here for help all the time. You gotta help yourself.”
