A Durban mother, Linda Govender, has returned to South Africa after a two-week search for her missing daughter, Terricia, in Nepal. Terricia was part of the Isha Foundation's S3 group and was last seen at the Gyirong immigration office when the flood hit on August 26. The natural disaster resulted in over 1,400 deaths and 6,000 people still missing. Govender's search for her daughter was grueling and took a toll on her emotionally and physically.
Govender said she fell ill when she started talks about leaving Nepal last Tuesday. Despite her health issues, she continued to search for her daughter, looking through debris and searching for clues. She actively posted on social media about her quest to find Terricia, making her and her family's faces known to locals. Govender also appealed to the Chinese government to create a platform where photographs of thousands of items belonging to missing persons could be posted.
The search for Terricia was not just a solo effort; Govender was accompanied by her brother Selva Govender and Terricia's friend Sashin Maharaj. Maharaj, who shared a 16-year friendship with Terricia from high school, found a heart-shaped rock on the riverbank, which gave them hope that Terricia might still be found. Govender expressed her gratitude to the "Nepal family" who helped her in her search and assured that the search for Terricia will continue.
Govender said she has assurance from many families and people in Nepal that they will keep searching and looking for clues as to where Terricia might be. She also received overwhelming support from the public, with many strangers messaging her to offer prayers and support. Govender believes that the universal language of motherhood has helped her through her toughest days.
The search for Terricia has not been without challenges. Govender and her team faced red tape and politics when trying to access certain areas. They have applied for access into Tibet and requested that the Tibetan government create a website or database with photographs of the belongings of those who are missing. However, they have yet to receive a response.
Govender's faith in finding her daughter remains strong. She believes that Terricia might be lying unconscious in a hospital or at a medical camp. The family is waiting for the Tibetan authorities to allow them access into the area to search. Govender assured that the moment they have a solid lead about Terricia's whereabouts in Nepal, they will be on the next flight to search for her again.
The support from the public has been a source of strength for Govender. She receives messages from strangers telling her that they are praying for Terricia and her. Many mothers have also reached out to her, saying that Terricia is not only her daughter but also their daughter, and that they are praying for her safe return home. Govender remains hopeful that Terricia will be found and that the search will yield positive results.
Key points
- The search for Terricia Govender will continue despite Linda Govender's return to South Africa.
- The Nepal-Tibet border flood resulted in over 1,400 deaths and 6,000 people still missing.
- Govender has appealed to the Chinese government to create a platform for posting photographs of items belonging to missing persons.
