Thanks,

@Ju**

. I've been a teacher on Phuket previously, but finding it difficult to see opportunities at this time.

First, to everyone whom reacted, commented or advised, your kindness and efforts - ironically, considering the weather - made today a lot less gloomy. Thank you.

It did sadden me, however, to read a few divisive remarks.

I reached out to a community for advice from peers or from others who may have experienced similar circumstance . . . and undoubtedly to make aware that people are not only stuck abroad trying to get back to Thailand to be reunited with loved ones, but that some are isolated here with few resources to remain or even depart.

To those that find it difficult to understand my predicament or how a parent could find themselves in such, I can only respond by noting that I loved my work. It wasn't a high earning position, but it made me happy and more importantly, it gave me the opportunity and flexibility to spend as much time as possible with my son, while affording the best education I could afford. As people here know, tourism based businesses are predominantly seasonal, so some months we struggled . . . but a new and better year was always on the horizon, as long as my boy and I had each other and we could put food on the table.

Some remarked on having contingencies as a parent, and I wholeheartedly agree. In January of 2020, I was putting those in place, but who would have forecast a complete cessation of business and a complete collapse of the Island's tourism?

Was it wrong to hold on in hope, in a place where I had invested in business and relationships, a place where my son had developed an excellent group of friends and enjoyed going to school.

Perhaps Phuket has run its course for me and others, but being here gave me my son and so many good memories, I'll always hope for the best.

Thanks again for your support and an opportunity to vent.

Take care!

@Michael *******

Irish. Unforrunately, Helene is no longer on Phuket, and with her went the Consulate.

@Kool ******

Already contacted two sets of lawyers/solicitors, and a letter of demand sent, but a minimum of 175k is required to initiate any further proceedings.

For Labour office, a Thai interpreter or lawyer is best to accompany, but who to trust?

@Michael *************

Sadly, not available to start from Thailand.

Thanks, though.

@Brian **********

Many thanks for the concern and offer.

Unfortunately, 'go fund me' is not available to initiate in Thailand. They have a list of 19 countries from which a fundraiser can originate - Thailand is not one.

Again, thanks

@Zabel *****************

Thai family is not an option. No family left im my home country

@Dominic ********

As explained - I've been trying to negotiate due severance payment. Also, I'd just invested in the company a few months prior to Covid striking