Joe Lando Finds Meaning in Each Moment During Visit to Dallas

Before taking the stage as keynote speaker for the Each Moment Matters Luncheon (EMM), actor Joe Lando arrived in Dallas a day early to experience Forefront Living’s (FL) mission, vision and values firsthand. Best known for his role as Byron Sully on Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman, Lando toured the T. Boone Pickens Hospice Center (TBPHC), where he gained a personal understanding of the compassionate care that defines FL.

Accompanied by Forefront Living CEO Tim Mallad, Joe Lando explored the campus with several teammates: Diane Fullingim, Executive Director of the Forefront Living Foundation (FLF); Melora Hartman, Director of Clinical Services at Faith Presbyterian Hospice; Rita West, Volunteer Coordinator; Lauren Barr, Inpatient Social Worker; and Jennefer Dixon, Music Therapist. The tour began on the first floor of the TBPHC with a walk through the common areas. The group then visited a patient room and spoke with RN Educator Deanna Davies, who shared stories of her work. During the tour, Lando also had a brief meeting with a patient. The visit included a stop at the Children and Family Bereavement Center, where he met members of the FLF team and learned how they support families through loss and healing.

The next day, Lando brought his message full circle during his keynote address at the EMM Luncheon. He spoke candidly about losing his home in the Pacific Palisades fire earlier this year, sharing how grief, gratitude and the kindness of friends and strangers have shaped his journey forward. His story of loss and renewal deeply moved the audience, echoing the luncheon’s theme of finding meaning and strength in each moment.

Lando’s visit served as a touching reminder that compassion connects us all, whether through the care of a hospice team or the generosity of a helping hand when life takes an unexpected turn.

Photos by Sarah Macias

by Wendy Van Bemmel