Let go
Yesterday started off like any other Monday. I began working on a new project and chatted all morning with coworkers about the logistics.
I hit the gym at lunch and surprisingly had my best 4 mile run in weeks. I was on a high.
Then I called in to an afternoon meeting that was mandatory for my whole team. The news was not good: we were all being let go. In 30 days, none of us will have a job.
To say I'm shocked would be an understatement. I'm still unable to process what happened. We were always told we had excellent job security and never to worry, so this blindsided all of us.
In the 2.5+ years I've held my position, I've been nothing but grateful. It was honestly my dream job, and knowing that I won't be writing about pregnancy, exercise, or diabetes on a daily basis (and getting paid for it) truly saddens me.
And the fact that I was the breadwinner in the family and I'm currently 21 weeks pregnant scares me like nothing else. I have no idea how we're going to afford to live on one salary, let alone care for a baby.
But like my husband said, maybe it's a blessing in disguise. As much as I loved my job, it upset me that I'd have to return to work so quickly after my son's birth. Now, that's most likely not an issue.
My mom sent me the best quote last night "worrying doesn't take away tomorrow's troubles; it takes away today's peace."
So I'm keeping things in perspective. Thank God yesterday's horrible news had nothing to do with the baby. I've gotten a lot of "what horrible timing this is for you with a baby on the way" comments. And it is. But it would be much worse if we were still going through fertility treatments (we paid for them all out of pocket). This baby is the biggest blessing in my life and no other setbacks will take that feeling away from me. I also know that people have raised a baby with way fewer resources than what we have, so I'm trying not to panic.
In the meantime, I'm going to enjoy my last month at work, figure out our budget, and apply for jobs. I'm terrified that no one will hire a pregnant woman, but I'm trying to be optimistic that I'll land some writing gig. On that note, if anyone has leads on any health/ medical writer or health educator positions, please pass them along 
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August 2nd, 2011 - 06:57
Hey,
It’s not a permanent position (freelance really) but a company I used to work for Clinical Care Options, is always looking for freelance medical writers. They are based in Reston, VA but half the staff is offsite and out of the state.
It might be a good start.
August 2nd, 2011 - 07:11
I am keeping you and your family in my thoughts! You are a strong woman, and I know everything will turn out the way it is supposed to!
August 2nd, 2011 - 07:12
At school, we get tons of emails for public health positions in the area and surrounding areas. I can forward those along to you if you’d like. Thinking of you and wishing you only the best!
August 2nd, 2011 - 07:16
I’m kind of in shock. It seems like there are so many new public health jobs in my area. Try using Indeed.com they usually have a good listing for health educators. Good luck, my fingers are crossed.
August 2nd, 2011 - 07:17
I usually don’t believe in ‘signs’ or anything like that, but maybe your baby is telling you he needs you more right now
)
August 2nd, 2011 - 07:23
Hopefully this will just lead to better things (I had an awful job related thing happen earlier this year and the final outcome was better than what the initial would have been!)! It sounds like you have a great attitude even though I’m sure its incredibly nerve-racking! Hang in there! (and just remember, all your baby really needs is love, attention…and food hehe (which is free if you breastfeed)).
August 2nd, 2011 - 07:29
I couldn’t pass up commenting on this post. I completely understand what you are going through! Just last Thursday I was pulled into my bosses office to receive the same news that you received yesterday. I had worked there for 6 years and the company has been reducing in size for about 3 years now. I made it through numerous rounds of lay-offs and never even saw this one coming. To top it off, I too am pregnant, 22 weeks actually. We have an almost 2 year old toddler and both my husband and I worked. This was a total shocker! I’m so glad that your employer was kind enough to give you a months notice. As for my employer, termination effective immediately! What a kick in the gut! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Hang in there…everyone tells me it gets better and I’m holding onto that hope!
August 2nd, 2011 - 07:32
I’m sorry to hear about your job. That’s kind of scary that you all can just be let go like that. At least you got the 30 day warning and have a bit of time to find work or freelance. I’m sending positive vibes your way that things will work out for the best.
August 2nd, 2011 - 07:49
Jen- so sorry to hear this news. Wish you the best in finding something else and figuring things out in the near future.
August 2nd, 2011 - 08:24
oh my word. i am so sorry dear! as someone who has been looking for a job, i can understand that the task is daunting. i will be thinking about you in the coming weeks as you morn for the loss of your current job and undertake the search for a new one.
August 2nd, 2011 - 08:26
I’m so sorry! I can’t imagine what a shock that must have been. Again, you blow me away with how you always find the silver lining. I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you that the job hunt is painless and quick.
August 2nd, 2011 - 08:40
I’ll be keeping my eyes and ears open for positions to send your way. I tend to agree that it may be a blessing in disguise… on to bigger, better and babies!
August 2nd, 2011 - 09:01
What a wonderful quote from your mother! I’m terribly sorry about your job-I can’t imagine going through that & I often wonder what I would do if I lost mine.
I know this won’t necessarily make you feel any better, but one of my good friends got let go when she was pregnant with her 2nd child. She and her husband ended up really tightening their belts & she chose to be a stay-at-home mom for nearly 3 years before taking on a part-time job. She has no plans to go back to a full time job until her youngest child starts school. As much as it has been financially hard for her, she has told me that the extra time with her children was more than she EVER could have asked for. So perhaps there is a bright side to this situation? Best of luck as you work to find the best solution for you, Jeff & Baby.
August 2nd, 2011 - 09:10
Jen, that just plain ol’ sucks! Are you able to apply for unemployment? At least that way you can have some sort of income. It has been one of my fears during pregnancy to lose my job. I’m praying for you – hopefully you find sometime. But, like you said, it could just be a blessing in disguise!
August 2nd, 2011 - 09:29
wow. it took my breath away reading it. you mom’s quote was a good one. i wrote it on my august calendar. hope that thought gets you through any tough times ahead. hang in there. sending good thoughts and peace your way.
August 2nd, 2011 - 10:20
Jen–I’m sorry to hear this crappy news. I’m glad you are able to see some of the positives, but I know it’s really scary to think about the financial details.
August 2nd, 2011 - 10:30
Hi Jen – just wanted to say again how sorry I am. I know this is a lot for you to deal with right now, and that it must be nerve-wracking. But I am hoping everything ends up working out for the best. I’m glad they at least gave you 30 days to try to get some things sorted out. If I hear of ANYTHING I promise I will send it your way!! Thoughts and prayers are with you guys.
August 2nd, 2011 - 10:36
I am so sorry! But if anyone can handle this setback, it is you. I love what your mom said too, so true. Best wishes, praying things on the job front get better soon
August 2nd, 2011 - 10:49
Jen, I am so sorry to hear that but it sounds like you are keeping a good attitude about it–which is very important! I was laid off in 2009 with 6 other people (from a company of 40). We were told and escorted from the building within about 30 minutes. It was mortifying, like I had done something wrong, but I hadn’t. Luckily, it landed me in a much better position. I couldn’t see it then, but it truly was a blessing in disguise.
I wish I could help on the job front but I don’t have any familiarity with your field
Keep your chin up and just focus on your amazing baby boy!
August 2nd, 2011 - 11:05
I know it’s scary for finances to be so uncertain. The good news is that you are a very creative person, and you are already seeing the blessings in your life. I hope amazing opportunities come your way soon!
August 2nd, 2011 - 11:15
I know this is a really scary time for you, losing a job is never easy. Add in pregnancy hormones and it can be downright terrifying. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. However, I know you can do this. You are a very strong woman and have a lot of support, so I have no doubts that you will push threw this and become stronger.
I write freelance health, fitness, and nutrition articles for livestrong.com so maybe you could check that out?
Good luck with everything!
August 2nd, 2011 - 11:25
I definitely feel what you’re going through. I lost my job the day before Thanksgiving in 2009 (but I wasn’t pregnant). While it’s nice to think that ‘everything happens for a reason’, etc, etc… I tend to think sometimes thinks just stink no matter what layer of frosting you put on top. I love your mom’s quote though – I’m saving it!! Take a deep breath and use this month to look into unemployment, job websites, update the resume, etc… In our city there was a non-profit organization that helped with resume tweaking and job searching – maybe your city has something as well? Good luck & I will DEFINITELY keep you in my prayers!
August 2nd, 2011 - 11:28
Ugh, I’m so sorry to hear this! Yes, hoping this will lead to something else that you love just as much as your current job. Hang in there, Jen. You guys have each other and will make it through!
August 2nd, 2011 - 11:36
Oh no! I’m so sorry to hear this! I think it just means better things are on the horizon for you, though…like a writing gig that you can do from home…
I agree with Jeff that it may be a blessing in disguise. I went back to work after 12 weeks of maternity leave. Less than 5 months later, I was laid off. I ended up getting to spend most of my son’s first year at home with him! A blessing in disguise! I’m back at work now, of course, but I long for those days of being a SAHM. If I could have figured something out and worked from home, I definitely would have done that! Fingers crossed for an amazing opportunity! *hugs*
August 2nd, 2011 - 11:37
Luckily you might be able to get some great freelance work AND be able to stay home with your baby so maybe this really is a good thing for you guys. I’m not going back to work after I have my daughter but I know that it’s a scary thing to rely on one salary for a family, my husband is already stressed just thinking about it.
I’m sure it will all work out in the end, plus you get a BABY too – can’t beat that!
August 2nd, 2011 - 11:41
Losing a job for any reason is emotional. It sounds like you are doing a good job of keeping things in perspective. You’ll be in my thoughts!*
August 2nd, 2011 - 12:01
wow i was in shock when i heard this. i am soo sorry. to me i would add the phrase from yiddush, it is bershet, in other words it is meant to be. things will work out. i know this is awful advice in a way but that is sometimes the only think you can do is sort of “fake it till you make it” always here to lend support in anyway possible
August 2nd, 2011 - 12:26
I’m SO SORRY
I hope you find something ASAP.
Check Demand Studios – they do not pay great, but it might be better than nothing. I wrote for them for awhile last summer.
Also, what a great quote from your mom!
Hope something comes along ASAP!
August 2nd, 2011 - 12:31
I’m so sorry, but at least you’re keeping it perspective. Healthy baby >>> anything.
Are you in the Charlotte area? Have you heard of Cookies for Kids’ Cancer? They do a lot of stuff in the area….not a health/medical writing thing, but maybe something to look to get involved in if you have free time and are bored, although you’ll probably be busy nesting!
August 2nd, 2011 - 12:33
I’m so sorry Jen, I know this feeling all too well. I definitely tried/try to look at my unemployment as a blessing in disguise and that the perfect job is out there. I hope you find the idea situation for you and your family soon.
August 2nd, 2011 - 12:33
So many hugs to you. We are dealing with my husband’s pending unemployment (3.5 weeks and counting) and it’s so, so hard.
August 2nd, 2011 - 12:41
I’m so sorry, Jen. I have gotten laid off before and I know how scary it feels. Hang in there!
August 2nd, 2011 - 12:55
Oh, dear. Oh, dear. OH, DEAR.
I am so sorry to hear that you have lost your job. I have SO been there. Last year, I was laid off for 10 months. I am not going to say it wasn’t hard, but I really learned so much about myself because of it. The hardest lesson for me was to remember that it isn’t personal. It isn’t like YOU weren’t doing a great job. Its just business.
Your perspective on things is amazing. While the timing isn’t optimal (when is it, really?), you do have this beautiful sweet baby boy that you have wanted for so long on the way. I know this is a stressful time, but please continue to take care of yourself, eat healthy, and exercise.
As a fellow mama-to-be…also living in a house with one income (mine), I know it can be hard. Oh, and did I mention my mother lives with us too? But, you learn to be appreciative and thankful of the little things. I know you will make it through this! I will be praying that just the right thing comes along for you! And if I hear about anything (ANTHING!) I will be sure and send it your way!
August 2nd, 2011 - 13:11
Such awful timing, Jen! But I agree with you (and so many of the other commenters) that it could be a blessing in disguise- and luckily your career is one that lends itself to part-time work, work from home and freelancing.
August 2nd, 2011 - 13:12
(and also, good luck!)
August 2nd, 2011 - 13:23
First off Jen, your mom is an incredible woman and has some wise words! I just wrote that quote in my planner. It’s helping me out too, so thank your momma for me! (Just wrote a post today about my own job-worries… sigh…)
Anywho, as you know I work at the Y, and there are positions open ALL the time. Not sure if that’s the route you’d like to go, though? Just check out the careers tab if you are, though! There’s Wellness Director positions popping up all over the place! Sadly, I’m not qualified for them myself yet. Perhaps you are!?
I’ll make sure to send you anything I hear about your way!!! And I’ll be keeping you, baby, Nati and Jeff in my thoughts.
August 2nd, 2011 - 14:22
I’m so sorry! I recently had a couple friends go through similar situations. In both cases things worked out for the better. Until then keep the great attitude and take it one day at a time . Everything will all work out in the end. I will be sure to keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
August 2nd, 2011 - 15:06
I’m so sorry to hear this. It’s so tough out there. I now have a PhD and can’t find a permanent job, and it’s killing me. I’m glad you have such a positive outlook, and know that this had nothing to do with you personally.
August 2nd, 2011 - 15:50
Oh man. I am so sorry! One suggestion, which is by no means permanent, would be to check into your state’s requirements for substitute teachers, just to supplement your income and have flexibility. In California it requires a BA or BS, passing a really easy state test, and various fingerprints/background checks- and $100ish a day. Good luck.
August 2nd, 2011 - 18:19
Oh my gosh! I’m so sorry, but I agree that it could be a blessing in disguise! Everything happens for a reason, just remember that.
August 2nd, 2011 - 19:14
my job has been going really…really…bad for about 8 months and I have considered leaving many times, but it’s one thing to have it be my choice and another to have it put upon me. I agree with your husband and mine…things always have a way of working out
August 2nd, 2011 - 20:46
Hi Jen,
So sorry to hear that! I honestly thought your post was going to be about “letting go,” as in of the things that drag us down.
I am a dietitian and diabetes educator (and 34 weeks preggers) but I am in the NYC area, so don’t have connectios in Charlotte
I have hears, though, that Diabetes Living, and Today’s Dietitian are good magazines to freelance for. May be worth contacting them. Best of luck–if I hear of anything else, I will let you know!
Jen
August 2nd, 2011 - 22:42
Sorry about losing your job. I’ve been through this every year for 3 years and didn’t have a job a year ago and I’m waiting to hear if I get rehired. It gets annoying hearing from people that it’s meant to be or it’ll work out but it will. There is light at the end of the tunnel. Good luck.
August 3rd, 2011 - 00:06
I’m so sorry, girl! That’s such a horrible situation to be in, but I love your attitude about it all – that makes such a difference. And, I tend to agree with your husband… it very well could be a blessing in disguise. It’s funny how Gad works that way sometimes, you know?
Best of luck on the job search, I’m sure you’ll be able to find something great in no time! Have you considered freelancing? I’ve had some luck with it and it’s really enjoyable.
August 3rd, 2011 - 07:31
Jen, I’m sorry that you have to go through this as it’s an additional stress that I don’t wish for you. That said, I do know that you and your family will work through this together and something great will come along for you. I am dealing with the job search right now and your mom is right – worrying doesn’t help. I’m sending you my best!
August 4th, 2011 - 18:39
Ugh!!! I am so very sorry! As a fellow breadwinner, I know how scary it can be. You are amazing and you have an amazing ability to really convey information. I know something will fall in your lap.
August 5th, 2011 - 11:12
So sorry to hear your news!!! I know something will come your way.
Two recommendations: Miracle Blanket (truly a miracle if your baby is squirmy but likes to be swaddled, my first did well with it but my second hated the swaddle so it’s sort of a toss up) and the ItzBeen Baby timer. I know it sounds stupid but in the middle of the night it helps remember how long it’s been since the baby has been fed (and helps remember the side if you’re nursing), changed, etc. Had it with my second and LOVED it. It only lasted about 4 months but by that time my daughter was more predictable so I wasn’t using it as much anyway.
August 6th, 2011 - 08:48
I’m so far behind on blogs… I’m sorry you went through this Jen. But what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. And this is totally bad timing but you have such a good head on your shoulders and I know you will find something else that makes you just as happy.
August 7th, 2011 - 08:55
Jen I am keeping you in my thoughts and know that your attitude and support from your family will get you through this. I love that you can already start to see it as a blessing in disguise, and maybe it will be the best thing that could happen to you and your son.
August 7th, 2011 - 12:13
I am so sorry to hear about this Jen. If you need help finding a job, I may be able to help you out with contacts. Don’t worry though- everything happens for a reason, and something even better will come along. I just know it!
August 9th, 2011 - 10:15
I have been stalking your blog for a few weeks. I love that you are documenting how you are working out during pregnancy. It was so hard to find information about exercising while I was pregnant last year. I am so sorry to hear that you were laid off.
To share some, my daughter was born last August and I returned to work in right after New Years. I was laid off 8 weeks later. While my husband is the “bread winner” of the family, I wasn’t getting paid in peanuts. After the shock wore off, I started looking for a job. I looked for 2 months and we had adjusted to the one salary + unemployment. It has turned out to be a blessing in disguise because I am enjoying being home with my Little Lady.
Good Luck!
August 10th, 2011 - 21:36
Jen – so sorry to hear the news. Can’t believe how many people have similar “curve balls” being thrown at them while pregnant, as commented upon above. I have one too…when I was off 8 yrs ago on maternity leave with my daughter (our 1st baby), my husband got laid off when the airline industry went bust following 9-11 and a bunch of pilots lost their jobs. He came home and I went back to work. While I missed an extra month of mat leave b/c I went back to work early, it ended up being the best possible thing that cld have happened to my family. My husband ended up taking a parental leave that we had not planned on, and it really changed our lives for the better. And we found a way to make the finances work. You always do. He ended up being off work for 8 months, but we don’t look at that period as a “rough patch”. Instead, it ended up being for our little family one of our best blessings.
Hopefully you can find another job or some freelance to get you through to the end of the pregnancy, but once the baby arrives, Jeff is absolutely right that this will actually end up being blessing. You guys down there in the States go back to work far too early anyway – LOL! I went back to work after 6 months with each of my kids, and now 6 and 8 yrs later, one of my only regrets is that I didn’t stay off longer.