Editor:
On Feb. 6 a parent’s worst nightmare happened. Our family’s two-and-a-half-year-old girl went missing.
Of course, the first thing we did was to search the property, but soon it was clear that we needed more help.
It was then that we called 911. While talking with the operator, we heard sirens. “Are those sirens coming for us?” we asked.
We were shocked, we couldn’t believe how fast the police arrived. Of course, all of us were eager to jump in and help in any way we could.
The police told us to show them the property, and then we left it up to them.
Neighbours, people walking by, church family, and people that stopped while driving, all helped to look along the road, in the ditches and on neighbouring properties.
They told us it would be best to just stay in the house, so they could do their thing. Soon search and rescue was here, then three fire trucks arrived. On top of that, were maybe eight to 10 police cruisers.
It was absolutely incredible, the team work and promptness of their arrival and methods.
A victim services officer came quickly, she was like a counsellor for us. Already we had four of our church family at our house, comforting us, and cooking for the kids. She really didn’t have much to do with the others there, but her presence and professional, yet caring attitude was greatly appreciated.
Then two officers came in and took statements from everyone. They were so patient, and kind, and were so good with interviewing the younger kids, asking them in ways that their answers would actually be of help. Sadly, at around 8 p.m. the emergency crew found her little body at the bottom of our pond.
We know her spirit is in heaven with Jesus, and only her body is left here on Earth. We look forward to seeing her again.
The purpose of this letter, is to thank the following people:
The emergency responders who showed up so quickly for doing such a hard job, working in the dark, and for finding her body. If we never had any answers, it would haunt us for the rest of our lives.
The neighbours, and drivers who took time out of their lives to search for our little girl, calling her name and looking in the ditches, neighbours’ properties, and the streets.
The counsellor, for coming to help us, talk to us, cry with us, and give the kids little toys.
The church family, for praying so hard, and helping out in driving, cooking, and babysitting.
The two detectives for coming to the hospital. It was so nice to see familiar faces there.
Our pastor for his continued support, and practical gifts.
The community, for all the food, letters, emails, messages, and prayers.
All the support, has been amazing. Thank you all so much, and we won’t forget your kindness to us. May we as a community, come together when others are hurting, to aid in the comfort, as you have done for us. God bless and thank you.
Johnson family, Aldergrove
