COVID

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 was difficult for just about every person on the planet. We all have losses from that time, some large and tragic, others small but often long-lasting. For those posted abroad with USAID, the experience varied tremendously depending on your location. Every country made its own rules about masking, isolation, businesses, testing, and vaccines. Countries with weaker local health systems saw horrific death tolls. For a while, the State Department allowed U.S. diplomats and their families worldwide to return to the States for several months under a status called “Authorized Departure.” For those who stayed at post, every Ambassador assessed the risk in their country and set rules for American diplomatic families under their authority. No matter where in the world they were physically located, USAID staff worked long days for months on end to strengthen in-country health systems, deliver ventilators, and procure medicine and protective equipment. If you are a USAID alum, or family member, with a story of living through COVID-19 overseas, I’d love to hear it. Send me a message or a voice note at www.itwasneverajob.com.