Matthew Ohlsson’s parents find strength in 40 years of marriage and caring for children

Michael and Michelle Ohlsson, parents of nine-year-old Matthew Ohlsson, who vanished from their Mitchells Plain home in 1999, celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary with family and friends, including the many foster children they raised over the years. The couple, married since 1986, have since become a source of support for other families of missing children through their organisation, Concerned Parents of Missing Children.

Matthew's disappearance has been a source of pain and unanswered questions for the couple, but they have refused to blame each other, instead focusing on their love and strength. They have lived with the loss of their son for over 29 years, carrying the burden of not knowing what happened to him. Despite the challenges, the Ohlssons have found ways to keep moving forward, welcoming more than 40 foster children into their home over the decades.

Their vibrant home represents new beginnings, and they have found solace in faith and love, allowing them to continue loving others despite their grief. Michael and Michelle's resilience and commitment to supporting others have left a lasting impact on those around them.