From RV to Home: David and Vivian Find Their Way Home
David Pak and Vivian Yao, with their adorable dog Luna, arrived at Coast House on February 22, 2023, after months of living in their RV, facing unimaginable hardships—being robbed of their belongings and, ultimately, losing the RV that had been their home. It was the first time in their lives they had ever experienced homelessness, and it was a devastating blow.
David’s journey had taken a painful turn when he was diagnosed with cancer. He underwent surgery and started chemotherapy, but the toll on his body was heavy. He lost his job, and Vivian, ever by his side, became his sole caregiver. As his health worsened, Vivian had to reduce her working hours and, eventually, gave up everything to care for him full-time. Their lives, once full of promise, had spiraled into uncertainty.
When they arrived at Coast House, they came with nothing but humility and gratitude. They were not just thankful for the roof over their heads but for the opportunity to rebuild, to regain their dignity, and to find hope again. They knew the road ahead would be long, but David was recovering, and together, they believed they could rise from this.
From the start, they made it clear to their case manager, Stephanie, that they would do whatever it took to turn their lives around. They committed to using every resource available to them and promised to put in the hard work needed to improve their situation. And that’s exactly what they did.
Vivian worked tirelessly—delivering food and waitressing at a local restaurant, often with little rest but still with a smile, just to make ends meet. David, on the other hand, collected recyclables, took on home repair jobs around the area and did fishing. Despite the fatigue, the challenges, and the setbacks, they never lost sight of their goal: to build a better future. Their resolve, resilience, and determination were unshakable.
Through hard work, unwavering support, and their own commitment to each other, to Luna and to the process, David and Vivian transformed their lives. On November 27, 2024, they officially moved out of WeHOPE Coast House and into their very own apartment. This Thanksgiving, they celebrated in their own home, filled with a sense of pride, gratitude, and hope.
Their journey wasn’t easy. It was filled with heartbreak, setbacks, and moments of doubt. But through it all, David and Vivian held on to each other and to the belief that with the right help, hard work, and a heart full of determination, even the most difficult circumstances can be overcome. Their story is one of resilience, love, and the power of never giving up.
Editorial note: This story and accompanying photo were graciously submitted by their WeHOPE case manager, Stephanie Licudine.
