When we were writing this Guide, we thought it might help you to know that no matter what happens, your life will go on. Things do get better. One way or another, you’ll be able to move forward.
Some of us are much older than when our brother or sister went missing. We have been through a lot of emotions over the years and are still in many ways on that same roller coaster that started when our sibling went missing. Things are different now, and so are we. This is not to say it is bad—we have grown, become stronger, and have been able to help others like you understand and cope with what is happening around you. The trauma we have gone through is not linear. We have been living forward over the years—feeling all the feelings yet going on one day at a time. Your journey and your goals, for yourself and your family, will change over time. And as they do, and as you progress, you will discover new goals and work toward them.
Don’t give up. Don’t lose hope. Keep striving to make a good life for yourself. You will have setbacks, flashbacks, and even what some of us have experienced as PTSD. Life does not always give us what we want, what we hope for, or what we feel we need. But we are here to affirm: You are not alone, and you will get through this. Ask for help and stay connected. There are so many people out there who want to support you throughout this journey.
In the pages that follow, we'll share our stories.
