The family of an Abbotsford woman who has been missing for over a month appealed to the public today (Thursday) for new information that might help locate her.
A press conference was held at the home of Erica Schmidt (in photo below) by her husband, Henry, and the couple's three grown children – Michael Schmidt, Amy Schmidt and Sophia Prachnau.
Henry thanked the public, family and friends for their support, love and prayers.
"All the support is really appreciated, but we do really want one thing out of this, and that's that (their) mom, our grandma, my wife would be able to be with us this Christmas," he said.
Erica, 59, walked away on the morning of Saturday, Oct. 5 from the couple's home on Timberlane Drive.
The only sighting that police have been able to corroborate so far occurred that afternoon, when Erica was seen in the 2400 block of McCallum Road, not far from the Five Corners intersection.
Police were able to obtain security video from a business in the area which confirms the sighting.
The family said that Erica has suffered from depression in the past and was going through a difficult time about two weeks prior to her disappearance, but seemed to be getting better.
Henry said that about five years ago, Erica disappeared from the home and was located a few hours later on the north side of the Fraser River in the Cascade Falls area of Mission.
He said that area was one of the first searched when Erica went missing on Oct. 5, but did not result in any leads.
The family said they are thankful for the support of the Abbotsford Police Department, Central Fraser Valley Search and Rescue, and all the volunteers who have aided in the search.
"We believe that she is coming home," Amy said.
A tearful Sophia issued a special plea to her mom, who also has three young grandchildren.
"Mom, if you're listening, if you're out there, please come home because we really miss you. We love you and care about you so much. And your grandchildren … they all miss their grandma, and they want their grandma back."
Michael appealed to the public to let police know if they spot someone matching Erica's description or if they might have seen her, particularly on the day she went missing.
At the time she was caught on the security video, she was wearing a light-blue jacket, a long dark skirt and flat shoes, and was carrying a large black purse.
She is 5' 4", weighs 140 pounds, and has auburn hair and blue eyes. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Abbotsford Police Department at 604-859-5225.
For continuing updates on the search for Erica, visit the Facebook page "Help Find Erica!"