For Anne and Gunawan Halim, owners of Asian Bite near Stone Oak, the restaurant was more than a business. It was a way to support their family while staying close to their two sons, including one who is nonverbal and lives with autism.
A Family’s Dream at Risk
The couple took over Asian Bite in 2024 after years of working in the restaurant industry. Anne said owning a restaurant allowed her family to work toward something she hoped her children could one day inherit. However, that future changed suddenly on May 29 when Gunawan suffered a stroke at home.
Gunawan was rushed to the hospital, where doctors found bleeding in his brain. He underwent emergency surgery and spent about a week in intensive care before being transferred to a rehabilitation facility. Anne said her husband is showing signs of progress, particularly with his speech, but he remains paralyzed on the left side of his body and faces a long recovery.
As the restaurant’s owner and only cook, Gunawan’s absence forced Anne to temporarily close Asian Bite’s doors. She has even placed a ‘Business For Sale’ sign outside the front door. Anne told KSAT she is unsure how long she can manage everything on her own.
The decision has been especially difficult because of what the restaurant represents for their family. For 17 years of marriage, Anne said she and Gunawan worked hard to provide for their children. She describes her husband as a dedicated provider who was always working to support his family.
A friend created a GoFundMe page on the family’s behalf, which has garnered more than $23,000 for the family. Anne said she has been overwhelmed by the support from customers, neighbors, teachers, and members of the Stone Oak community.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.