After taking CAT pay and then a month of unpaid absence, I chose option 3 as cases are going up in my state and I’m not prepared to risk the health of my immunocompromised wife.

So, as of Wednesday just gone, I’m no longer with the siren. I can’t say I cared for the job, from day one I got the overwhelming impression I was a battery in a machine and there was an overall cult like quality to the company, but...there’s a few colleagues and a couple of regulars I’ll certainly miss.

This was also my first job since moving to the states from the UK, so at first it felt like a set back to hang up the apron. At first it felt like I was taking a step backwards in my effort to form an identity here, but I know I’ve done the right thing. Especially when it appears the cafe in my store is back open (in some capacity) during the highest spike of cases in my area.

Anyway, I just wanted to leave a message here to say thank you.

The information and experiences you guys have shared has sincerely helped the last couple of months. Seriously, you’ve given me info and details much faster than my own store, and hearing you voice similar concerns has helped me feel less alone.

I wish you all the best and I hope you all make it through this safe and sound. For those staying on, I’m hoping you guys get the respect and fair treatment you deserve.