‘The girl in the cupboard’: Tributes pour in as Natasha Ryan passes away
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In a tale that seems more akin to fiction than reality, the story of Natasha Ryan has captured the attention of Australians nationwide.
Natasha was just 14 years old when she vanished from her family home in Rockhampton in 1998.
She was later found alive four years later, hiding in a cupboard at her adult boyfriend's house, while an innocent man faced trial for her alleged murder.
Fast forward to recent times, and the community is mourning once again. Natasha Ryan, now 40, was found deceased on the grounds of the Rockhampton Golf Club.
The news has sent ripples of sorrow through those who knew her, with tributes pouring in to honour the life of a woman who had faced extraordinary circumstances.
Celebrity agent Max Markson expressed his deep sadness. 'Just so sad, she should have lived 40 years longer,' he lamented.
‘I spoke to her mum this morning it’s just, just a lost person, sad person. Shouldn’t have gone.’
Natasha's life after her return was one of transformation and service.
She married her boyfriend, Scott Black, in 2008, and together they had four children. Natasha pursued a career in nursing, dedicating herself to caring for others.
Her colleagues spoke of her as 'fabulous' and a 'treasured friend’, while her patients recalled her kindness and compassion during their most vulnerable moments.
Queensland Premier Steven Miles and state Opposition Leader David Crisafulli both expressed their condolences.
‘This is obviously a tragic story, and my sympathies go to her family and loved ones,’ Miles said.
‘It shows the challenges that people face when dealing with mental health,’ Crisafulli said.
The journey to reconnect with her family was a complex one for Natasha.
After years of being presumed dead, rebuilding those bonds took time and patience. However, the family grew close again, a testament to their resilience and love.
‘Her mum and her sister (had a) good relationship, there’s no doubt about that,’ Markson said.
Those closest to her urge us to remember the woman she became rather than the young girl she once was.
You can watch 7NEWS Australia’s coverage below:
Credit: 7NEWS Australia / Youtube
For anyone struggling or needing assistance, remember that help is available.
Lifeline can be reached at 13 11 14, and Beyond Blue offers support for those dealing with depression at 1300 224 636.
If you or someone you know needs support, it's crucial to contact a GP, local health professional, or someone you trust.
You can also ask our retired psychologist, member @Joy Straw, about depression and dealing with when feelings start to overwhelm you.
You can also ask Joy a question here.
For immediate support, here is a list of mental health helplines you can contact.
Our thoughts and prayers go to Natasha Ryan’s family and friends at this difficult time. May she rest in peace.
Natasha was just 14 years old when she vanished from her family home in Rockhampton in 1998.
She was later found alive four years later, hiding in a cupboard at her adult boyfriend's house, while an innocent man faced trial for her alleged murder.
Fast forward to recent times, and the community is mourning once again. Natasha Ryan, now 40, was found deceased on the grounds of the Rockhampton Golf Club.
The news has sent ripples of sorrow through those who knew her, with tributes pouring in to honour the life of a woman who had faced extraordinary circumstances.
Natasha Ryan, known for being the girl hiding in the cupboard after running away from her family, passed away. Credit: 7NEWS Australia / Youtube
Celebrity agent Max Markson expressed his deep sadness. 'Just so sad, she should have lived 40 years longer,' he lamented.
‘I spoke to her mum this morning it’s just, just a lost person, sad person. Shouldn’t have gone.’
Natasha's life after her return was one of transformation and service.
She married her boyfriend, Scott Black, in 2008, and together they had four children. Natasha pursued a career in nursing, dedicating herself to caring for others.
Her colleagues spoke of her as 'fabulous' and a 'treasured friend’, while her patients recalled her kindness and compassion during their most vulnerable moments.
Queensland Premier Steven Miles and state Opposition Leader David Crisafulli both expressed their condolences.
‘This is obviously a tragic story, and my sympathies go to her family and loved ones,’ Miles said.
‘It shows the challenges that people face when dealing with mental health,’ Crisafulli said.
The journey to reconnect with her family was a complex one for Natasha.
After years of being presumed dead, rebuilding those bonds took time and patience. However, the family grew close again, a testament to their resilience and love.
‘Her mum and her sister (had a) good relationship, there’s no doubt about that,’ Markson said.
Those closest to her urge us to remember the woman she became rather than the young girl she once was.
You can watch 7NEWS Australia’s coverage below:
Credit: 7NEWS Australia / Youtube
For anyone struggling or needing assistance, remember that help is available.
Lifeline can be reached at 13 11 14, and Beyond Blue offers support for those dealing with depression at 1300 224 636.
If you or someone you know needs support, it's crucial to contact a GP, local health professional, or someone you trust.
You can also ask our retired psychologist, member @Joy Straw, about depression and dealing with when feelings start to overwhelm you.
You can also ask Joy a question here.
For immediate support, here is a list of mental health helplines you can contact.
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