A New Home

Koi pond

We all know life can throw a curveball when you least expect it, and someone who knows that all too well is James Hearn. Now 73 years old, he worked for years in the industry doing testing and repairing of consoles and other equipment for sound mixing, as well as building and customizing studios to create a theater environment.

Disabled since 1998 due to work-related trauma, he lost his support system in 2018 with the death of his partner of over 40 years (his primary source of caregiving and income) and had already been in contact with MPTF about being on the list for future residency.

With the guidance of his Elder Connection social worker at MPTF, James became eligible for our services and was referred to Age Well for medical care, our home safety program, our Daily Call Sheet program, and access transportation. In 2019 we helped him with a transfer to an assisted living facility, including relocation expenses. During the pandemic his well-being significantly declined. His social worker advocated for his expedited transfer to our campus. In April of 2022, James moved to the Lodge.

Group doing arts and crafts

He’s flourished here with new friendships with others who worked in the entertainment industry, as well as receiving regular medical care as well as physical therapy. In particular he loves the koi pond near our entrance, a tranquil spot to spend the day. Now he’s looking forward to post-COVID life here with regular movie screenings and, as an art minor in college, enjoying our resident art classes, including his favorite, ceramics. “It’s fantastic,” he says of his home here. “I describe it as a cross between a college campus and a park!”

To learn more about the many ways you can support MPTF’s future and help others like James, please contact Louie Anchondo at 818-876-1925 or louie.anchondo@mptf.com.