When I arrived, a nurse informed me that Mr. Ayers, as I call him, wasn’t there. Mr. Ayers has lived a hard life, spending the bulk of his 72 years in institutions and on the streets. By chance, the same day I learned of Mr. Ayers’ hospitalization, my column on nursing homes was published. Mr. Ayers was congested and his eyes were glassy, and they were about to test him for COVID-19. She also said that after I dropped off the violin, Mr. Ayers was shipped back, yet again, to the hospital.

Source: Los Angeles Times September 16, 2023 19:57 UTC