A message of thanks, hope, & appreciation from our family to yours

Our family is overwhelmed with the support, encouragement, and renewed hope for Heidi in the past week. The media reaches out for a statement or comment as they organize their stories. The first few days we were stunned and still processing this information, so we refrained. As the days progress, we waited in hopes there would be more to share. Almost a week later, we are waiting, just like you.  

My parents and I, want to make sure everyone knows how much we appreciate you. As the family checks in with each other throughout the day, we each share a message, kindness, or something we've experienced in the past week that lifted us up, just when we needed it. It's because of you, those hoping and praying for Heidi, we shared a message of hope this morning with the media. They've been patient, as have you. 

I could have emailed the statement to media yet we know many are waiting and watching, like we are, and not everyone is online. Instead of returning phone calls to each station or paper individually, it made sense to go to them (media) since they were all in one place. Mom and Dad remained home in case the phone rang while I took a few minutes to express this to you. We knew what we wanted to say yet know when standing in front of the cameras at the search location, it's better to have it in writing. Auntie M was ready to finish reading if I couldn't, I'm thankful she was there. I hope you all know how much we appreciate you.

"I would like to take this opportunity to share with all of you on behalf of the family. Last week, with less than ten minute’s notice, we were thrust back to the emotional roller coaster of April 3, 1994.

Our goal today is the same as it was then, to find Heidi and bring her home. We would like to thank the majority of media for respecting the family’s privacy and need for time to process all that is happening. We are reading and waiting along with the rest of you. Your patience and understanding is appreciated.

A friend,  whose sister has been missing nearly as long as Heidi wrote to say, “This looks like a fasten your seat belts and hang on kind of roller coaster". I read with tears and laughter at the same time. Tears because she was exactly right, and laughter because very few truly understand the depth and magnitude of events like this.

It’s been less than a week since a reporter walked onto my parent’s steps to pour salt into an open wound and the hurt, grief, and pain of twenty years ago returned as we listened to the horrific words she shared. Within minutes from leaving my parents driveway, the first of many articles were published. We understand Heidi’s disappearance and case are news yet to us, this is more than a story, it’s our Heidi.

I believe a vast majority of the community would agree, Heidi is more than a missing person poster or case number, she was a young, energetic, and loving person. Her smile captivated your heart the first time you met her. She remains missing and is forever my only sister, my parent’s youngest child, and family and friend to many.

We don’t know what will become of this recent search or documents being filed at the court house. One thing we do know, we value and trust law enforcement, the judges, and jury who have dedicated countless hours to find Heidi and ensure justice. We appreciate the medical examiners, doctors, investigators, and those we may not realize that are determined to bring Heidi home with truth, integrity, and compassion. I’m not judge or jury, I’m merely Heidi’s sister…waiting to hear just like all of you.

As we wait, we thank all of you, and those watching or reading. We know our grief, is your grief. We are grateful for the encouragement, support, and love you all have for Heidi and our family. We know Heidi was special and the outpouring of support, even twenty years later is evidence of this. As you pray for Heidi and us, know we are also thanking God for each of you and praying for you too – that we all have strength, hope, and peace as we all wait together.

Time will tell, until then…There is always hope for Heidi!  Thank you!

CNY Central posted the above video on YouTube.

Our family thanks you for your support, prayers, & encouragement.
The goal is the same today as it was twenty years ago...to find Heidi.