It’s a story that tugs at the heart and highlights the importance of compassion and community—especially when it comes to supporting older generations.

An elderly woman who once brought joy to countless people through her music has now vanished, leaving loved ones and concerned neighbours searching for answers.

With health challenges adding urgency to the situation, her disappearance has become a race against time.


Sandra was last seen after 4 p.m. on Friday near the bustling Atlantic Terminal Mall in Brooklyn, close to the iconic Barclays Centre.

According to her family and the NYPD, she was spotted boarding a subway at Atlantic Avenue. Since then, there has been no sign of her.


Her daughter, Star DaSilva, shared a heartfelt plea: 'Sandra is more than just our mother; she is a warm, vibrant woman who once brought joy to audiences as part of The Platters. We just want to bring her home safely.'

Sandra is described as being about 5-foot-3, and was last seen wearing grey pants, white sneakers, and a pink shirt layered over a white long-sleeve top.

With her dementia, she may be confused or disoriented, making her especially vulnerable in the busy city.


For those who may not know, The Platters were formed in 1952 and became one of the most successful vocal groups of the early rock and roll era.

Their timeless hits like The Great Pretender and Only You are still beloved today. Sandra joined the group in 1965, long after the original lineup, but her contributions helped keep the group’s legacy alive for new generations.

It’s a reminder that our musical icons are real people, with families and lives beyond the stage.

Sandra’s story is a poignant example of how quickly life can change, and how important it is to support our elders—especially those living with conditions like dementia.

Sandra’s disappearance also highlights a growing issue for many families: the risk of wandering among people living with dementia.

According to Alzheimer’s Australia, up to 60 per cent of people with dementia will wander at some point.

This can be incredibly distressing for families and carers, and it’s a reminder of the importance of community awareness and support.

If you’re in the New York area, please keep an eye out for Sandra. Any information, no matter how small, could be crucial.

The NYPD urges anyone with information to call the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS or submit tips online via the CrimeStoppers website.

For those of us in Australia, Sandra’s story is a powerful reminder to check in on our own loved ones and neighbours, especially those who may be vulnerable. Community vigilance can make all the difference.

Our thoughts are with Sandra’s family, and we hope for her safe return. If you have any information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the authorities. And if you’d like to share your own experiences or advice, please join the conversation below.
Have you or someone you know ever experienced a similar situation with a loved one going missing? What steps do you take to keep your family members safe, especially those living with dementia or other health conditions? We’d love to hear your stories, tips, and words of support in the comments below.

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