Friend, I have some personal news to share with you.
As you may know by now, Sophie recently returned from a speaking event in the UK feeling ill, and was experiencing mild flu-like symptoms. Unfortunately, after being tested for COVID-19, the test results came back as positive. She is feeling well, and her symptoms remain mild, however she will be in quarantine for the time being.
Sophie also wanted to share this note with you today:
To all my friends, family, beloved Canadians, and allies everywhere:
First, I’d like to say a big thank you to all of you who have reached out to me asking how I’m doing. Although I’m experiencing uncomfortable symptoms of the virus, I will be back on my feet soon. Being in quarantine at home is nothing compared to other Canadian families who might be going through this and for those facing more serious health concerns.
We will get through this situation together. Please share the facts and take your health seriously. I send you all my courage and warm thoughts (but only “get better” hugs from afar)!
Sincerely,
– Sophie
We are thinking about all the families across the country who have received the same diagnosis. I want to be clear that I have no symptoms. I’m feeling good, and technology allows me to work from home. Of course, it’s an inconvenience, and somewhat frustrating – we are all social beings after all. But we have to do this because we have to protect our neighbours and our friends, especially our more vulnerable seniors and people with pre-existing conditions.
This week, we have continued to outline more of Canada’s whole-of-government response to COVID-19, including by establishing a COVID-19 Response Fund of more than $1 billion – and there will be more to do. All orders of government are working together, and today I convened a call with the premiers and Indigenous leaders to discuss the latest developments and coordinate our efforts.
We have announced new restrictions on the upcoming cruise ship season, and additional screening measures have been put in place at all international airports, as well as land border, ferry, and rail ports of entry. Health Canada is now advising against all non-essential travel outside of Canada. Minister Bill Morneau announced a $10 billion credit program to mitigate COVID-19’s impact on our economy. We passed legislation to ratify the new NAFTA, and we reached an agreement with the other parties to suspend the House of Commons until April 20 while still protecting
our ability to support Canadians with emergency funding.
We’ve also been clear that no one should have to worry about paying rent, buying groceries, or additional childcare because of COVID-19 – and we will help Canadians financially. We are in the enviable position of having significant fiscal firepower available to support you, and the Government of Canada will be moving forward with a substantial fiscal stimulus package in the days ahead.
Information and resources on what Canadians, our families, and our communities can do to be prepared and support prevention can be found here:
Canada.ca/Coronavirus
To every worker and business, in every province and territory, my message is clear: we have your back, and we will get through this together.
Thank you for your continued support and involvement,
