April 2020
Dear Family Network members,
We are today united as never before because, whichever part of the world we live in, we are all facing the same crisis which is Covid-19. Although this is a fearsome foe, we are equally mighty and can overcome this situation by following rules, regulations and curfews defined by the local authorities. Whether we are separated from our loved ones due to travel restrictions or all cooped up in homes together, we must stay strong for ourselves and our families. At this time, as a group we must support one another. Don’t be alone and don’t let others be alone. Stay in touch with people in your community, especially those who have relocated recently and the elderly, through phone calls and messages.
While we are being bombarded with bad news from all directions, we must stay focused on the positives, and continue to do what we need to in our varied roles as professionals, parents and spouses/partners. This tough period will end, as we have witnessed with our Beijing WBFN community.
Social distancing, shelter-in-place, curfews and travel bans need not dampen your spirits irreparably.
The WBFN team is here to support you!
-We have organized a WebEx Coffee Hangout every Monday at 10:15 am and Thursday at 9:15pm EST which can be joined by all our members globally, a link has been sent to you via email. Please join us and get support from, and lend support to, our vast and diverse community.
-On March 31st we have planned a special Beijing Webinar with our families based in China to get tips from them about dealing with this crisis. Please click here to join in to learn how it all played out and how they faced it.
-If you are anxious, please reach out to Family Consultation Services at +1 202-458-5550 or familyconsultationservice@wbfn.org or if you have questions related to the virus please call the helpline at +1 202 458 8300.
Stay safe, stay healthy, follow guidelines and we hope all will be well.
Wishing you the very best!
Padmini and Marie-Noëlle
WBFN Presidents