I’ve been on both sides of this story, as the person informing someone they have been laid off and as the person being informed that my role has been impacted. And it’s true what you say, that everyone should always be prepared to be in this situation. But I want to caution all of us not to simplify the cause for this situation — it’s the result of allowing corporations to have so much power and political influence. It’s time to use our energy to take collective action, whether through unionizing or calling for universal healthcare or improved social safety nets. As you’ve shown in your research, there are many people who are impacted in very real ways. Losing a job in this way will always feel like a shock, but it shouldn’t put a young family like yours at risk of losing important benefits like health care.