Jill’s Journey of Resilience | LifeMoves Skip to main content
Jill’s story is one of profound resilience, marked by loss, perseverance, and hope. Her journey began when her husband, a Vietnam veteran, suffered devastating seizures caused by exposure to Agent Orange. The fight for his disability benefits drained their finances and stretched their endurance to its limits. For nearly a decade, they lived in a long-term hotel, leaning on each other as the world outside grew more uncertain. But their trials deepened when the hotel shut down, and shortly after, in 2022, Jill’s husband tragically passed away.

Shattered by grief and suddenly alone, Jill faced a daunting new reality. Homeless and struggling to navigate the labyrinth of interim housing and supportive services, she found herself in South San Francisco. After a month, she was transferred to the San Mateo County Navigation Center, where hope began to flicker. At this LifeMoves-operated facility, Jill gained access to essential support—case management, meals, behavioral health services, employment assistance, budget planning, and even on-site healthcare.

During this time, a doctor recommended she adopt an emotional support animal, leading Jill to rescue Mercury, a cat who became her lifeline. Though her heart still ached from the loss of her husband, Mercury offered Jill the companionship she so desperately needed. Together, they braved the uncertainty of each day, with Jill continuing to focus on her own health and Mercury’s care.

Finally, after enduring so much hardship, Jill found a permanent home in Redwood City. The apartment felt like a new beginning—a stable foundation from which to rebuild her life. As she unpacked her belongings and Mercury settled into their new space, Jill reflected on her journey with gratitude. The support from LifeMoves had been a beacon of hope, guiding her through some of her most challenging days.


In the face of overwhelming adversity, Jill emerged stronger, with a renewed sense of hope and a home to call her own.

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