As the 18th anniversary of Madeleine McCann’s abduction approaches, her parents, Kate and Gerry McCann, have shared a deeply moving message on the official “Find Madeleine” Facebook page. Their heartfelt note, posted just before the significant milestone on May 3, marks nearly two decades since their daughter vanished during a family vacation in Portugal.
Since Madeleine’s disappearance from the Praia da Luz resort in the Algarve on May 3, 2007, there has been no confirmed sighting of her, and no one has been formally charged with her kidnapping. However, her parents’ search has never wavered. In their latest post, they express their gratitude for the unwavering support from friends, family, and the public who continue to stand by them.
The McCanns’ message also highlights the growing number of missing children worldwide and expresses concern for the displaced children of Ukraine and Gaza, sending thoughts to families affected by conflict. “As we reach this painful anniversary, we want to thank everyone who has continued to support us, and who has kept Madeleine in their hearts,” they wrote. “While the years seem to pass in a blur, we remain determined to leave no stone unturned in our search for her.”
Kate and Gerry also took a moment to acknowledge International Missing Children’s Day, which falls on May 25. They extended their gratitude to the UK charity, Missing People, and to the various organizations, law enforcement agencies, and charities still working tirelessly to reunite missing children with their families.
This month also marks a bittersweet occasion for the McCanns as they prepare to celebrate Madeleine’s 22nd birthday. “No matter where she is, Madeleine is always with us. Every day, but especially on her birthday, we remember the beautiful, unique person she is,” the post reads.
A montage of pictures featuring Madeleine accompanied the message, with a simple but poignant caption: “No matter how near or far she is, Madeleine continues to be with us, every day.”
The McCanns are also preparing to attend a prayer vigil in their hometown of Rothley, Leicestershire, to mark this difficult anniversary. Meanwhile, police are keeping a close watch on a situation involving a woman named Julia Wandel, who reportedly visited the McCanns’ home, claiming to be their missing daughter. Wandel was detained earlier this week at Bristol airport and will face trial in the UK later this year. Kate and Gerry are expected to testify at the trial.
In the ongoing investigation, German authorities have named Christian Brueckner, a convicted rapist and paedophile, as the main suspect in Madeleine’s abduction and presumed death. However, despite this designation, he has not been formally charged. Brueckner, who was living in the Algarve when Madeleine disappeared, is set to be released later this year after serving time for a separate crime.
As the anniversary of Madeleine’s disappearance approaches, Kate and Gerry McCann’s fight for answers remains as strong as ever. They continue to hold onto hope and cherish every memory of their beloved daughter.
