**Rebuilding After Losing Home in Palisades Fire: Family’s Journey**
Frank Smiley, a well-known writer and producer for Conan O’Brien, found himself at the center of a devastating turn of events when his beloved home in the Palisades fire was reduced to ashes last Tuesday. Like many other victims of the raging Los Angeles County fires, he now faces the daunting task of rebuilding his life from the ground up amidst the chaos and uncertainty that follows such a tragedy.
**A New Beginning in Marina del Rey**
Frank Smiley was hard at work on Larchmont Boulevard when news of the fire reached him, rendering him unable to return to the quaint 1940s cottage he shared with his wife and two sons. With nothing but the clothes on his back, he sought refuge with his brother in Santa Monica until circumstances forced him to move to a hotel in Marina del Rey soon after. Determined to provide stability for his family, he wasted no time signing a lease for a two-bedroom duplex in the same area, a decision influenced by the support and camaraderie of his Palisades neighbors who found themselves in similar predicaments.
“We’re sticking together,” Frank shared. “It’s going to be great to support each other.” The sense of community and solidarity amongst the displaced families from his former street has been a beacon of hope in an otherwise tumultuous time.
**Navigating the Insurance Maze**
While Frank has managed to secure temporary lodging, the road ahead is paved with challenges, particularly concerning his insurance claim with Mercury Insurance. The daunting task of rebuilding, meeting with contractors, and negotiating with insurance adjusters looms large on the horizon, leaving him feeling overwhelmed and uncertain.
“The idea of meeting with contractors, rebuilding, getting together with the insurance adjuster,” Frank admitted. “I’m looking up at a mountain to climb.” The decision of whether to enlist the help of an independent public adjuster adds another layer of complexity, with conflicting advice from friends and business managers clouding his judgment.
**The Uncertain Path Ahead**
As Frank and his family settle into their new temporary home in Marina del Rey, the question of whether to rebuild in the Palisades remains unanswered. The future is shrouded in uncertainty, with Frank acknowledging the emotional and logistical challenges that lie ahead.
“We’re on the fence. It’s just hard to wrap our head around it,” he confessed. “I’m continuing on with my life. I’m safe and my family’s safe, and that’s everything.” In the face of adversity, Frank’s resilience and determination shine through, a testament to the strength of the human spirit in times of crisis.
As Frank Smiley embarks on this journey of rebuilding and renewal, his story serves as a poignant reminder of the power of community, resilience, and hope in the face of unimaginable loss.