Early Life

My name is Franklin Tieu, and I am a Chinese American born and raised in San Francisco. My parents immigrated from Vietnam in 1975, on the final day of the Vietnam War, in hopes of building a new life in America. Those early years were not easy. Neither of my parents spoke or understood English. They had few connections in San Francisco and little understanding of how systems worked or where to find resources. Food and shelter were never guaranteed. Despite these challenges and uncertainties, my parents persevered and slowly built a foundation for our family. My father worked as a garment deliveryman, and my mother took on contract work as a seamstress in San Francisco’s Chinatown. Over time, while continuing to work full-time jobs, they were able to grow a small sewing factory business of their own. Eventually, they were both able to retire in their mid-70s.

Later Life

After I got married and started a family of my own, I was no longer able to be present for my parents as often. As they grew older, life began to present new and more complex challenges. My father battled cancer twice and eventually passed in his mid-80s. My mother suffered a broken back injury. Through their senior years they had to navigate increasingly complicated matters involving Social Security, the IRS, legal proceedings, home management, family finances, and long-term planning. While my parents remained largely independent, many of these processes were unfamiliar and overwhelming. Over time, their cognitive abilities gradually declined, and they needed more support to navigate a complex society that was never designed with them in mind.

For nearly 20 years, I managed their healthcare processes—preparing for and attending appointments, providing translation, and helping them understand medical information. When major home maintenance was required—roofing, siding, plumbing, or electrical work—I oversaw those projects on their behalf. I became the point person who connected the dots across systems, providers, and decisions.

My Realization

Through these experiences, I came to deeply understand how much effort it takes simply to function in modern society as one grows older—especially while adult children become busier and more distant with their own lives. I am fortunate to live close enough to support my parents. But I also realized that many seniors do not have a son or daughter who can help. Their children may live far away, be overwhelmed with responsibilities, or simply be unable to step in consistently.

My Vision

My vision is simple: Every person entering their senior years has someone who can help usher them into this stage of life with dignity, clarity, and confidence. I believe every senior deserves the opportunity to continue living successfully—not just safely, but meaningfully.

This belief—and these lived experiences—are what led me to create Silver Strong.

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