Overcoming Adversity: A Journey of Love, Community, and Resilience

"Overcoming Adversity: A Journey of Love, Community, and Resilience"

The Chhans' doughnut shop on Pacific Coast Highway and 12th Street in Seal Beach was experiencing a surge in business. John, who is 63 years old, found himself selling out of various delectable treats like glazed doughnuts, maple bars, and croissants, often as early as 7 a.m. The close-knit community of Seal Beach rallied behind them, purchasing doughnuts in large quantities so that John could close the shop earlier and have more time to spend with his ailing wife.

For nearly three decades, the Chhans have owned and operated Donut City, dedicating themselves to its success. They rarely took a day off, only closing the shop on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Having immigrated from Hong Kong and Cambodia, Stella and John settled in Orange County when they established the shop and raised their two sons. Currently, they reside in Huntington Beach.

However, everything took a drastic turn on September 22, 2018. Stella and John were attending a pre-wedding celebration for a family member when Stella suddenly began feeling dizzy. Deciding to return home and rest, Stella's condition worsened. Concerned, John promptly took her to the hospital.

Stella has no recollection of anything that transpired between the time she laid down for her nap and when she regained consciousness in a nursing facility. Upon awakening, she discovered her inability to speak, walk, or even eat unassisted.

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Reflecting on her condition, Stella likened her state to that of a helpless infant, entirely reliant on others for her care and support.