Thoughts from a 19-year Filene's Basement sportswear associate

A testimonial from one Filene's Basement worker (submission has been edited for length).

I joined Filene's Basement in 1987, almost 20 years now. I have so many memories. I met so many different people from all over the world.

I came to the United States without a word of English. I had to put more time and effort to study English, so I could communicate and help others when they needed help.

I had left Vietnam on a big navy ship in April 1975. The ship held about 5,000 people. Everyone was scared and worried. Children were crying. At that time I was only 15 years old. I left my country without my parents, no money, or even an extra pair of clothes to wear. At the Pennsylvania/Indiana town gap, I met a couple who decided to adopt me as their daughter. After 32 years, we are still together.

The customers tell me all the time that they enjoy shopping in the Basement. In the past 2 weeks, it seems like time is going by so fast when I see more and more cashiers and stock workers leaving one by one. My heart aches every time I see my coworkers leave the store. I feel like this big family that we have is slowly falling apart one by one.

Today I met two loyal customers that were concerned about the future of Filene's Basement. Our customers are concerned about the employees and I'm happy and fortunate to have such loving customers.

At Filene's Basement, I've become acquainted with all of my coworkers and they have become such good friends to me. They are a part of my family.

I hate to see it end. I'll miss all of you. I hope everyone has a wonderful life and a good job in the future.

Love,
Van Nguyen