01/07/2026
One year ago, our beloved Pacific Palisades community was forever changed by a devastating wildfire. What carried us through this past year was the unwavering love, resilience, and support of our neighbors and friends.
Where we were failed, however, was by the very systems meant to protect homeowners in times of crisis. In August 2024, dropped our coverage and transferred us to . On the surface, we might appear “fortunate” because our home is still standing—but standing does not mean livable.
Our home remains uninhabitable due to severe smoke damage and Lead contamination was found throughout our home and on our furniture, yet our claim was closed in November 2025. We were offered minimal assistance to address it, and advised to clean contaminated furniture with “wet wipes” and move back in simply because the structure remains intact.
Despite paying high insurance premiums and substantial property taxes, we are expected to resume full financial responsibility, regardless of whether the home is safe to occupy. Choosing not to return would place the burden and a health risk entirely on us.
This experience has revealed a painful disconnect between what insurance coverage promises and what it actually delivers when disaster strikes. It has been a year marked by loss, stress, and uncertainty—not just for us, but for so many families in our community.
We share this not to seek sympathy, but to advocate for accountability, transparency, and humane treatment from insurance companies and governing bodies. Families deserve real support when rebuilding their lives after tragedy.
We have lost much—but not our hope, our friendships, or the cherished memories that make the Pacific Palisades home.