News Summary
Matthew Rosen’s 25-year search for his family ended in an emotional reunion in Alaska, where he was rediscovered after a long and challenging journey. Healthier and at peace, Matthew expressed remorse for his absence, while his family celebrates newfound connections and strength. Their experience inspired them to start ‘Hold on to Hope’, a nonprofit to support families with missing loved ones.
Knoxville, Tennessee – After a 25-year search, Matthew Rosen has been reunited with his family in a heartwarming reunion following his disappearance in his 20s while battling mental health challenges. The emotional encounter took place on May 2, 2023, after a lead from a private investigator allowed the Rosen family to locate Matthew in remote Alaska. Matthew, now 50 years old, appeared healthy and at peace, a stark contrast to concerns about his previous well-being.
The Rosen family’s journey to find Matthew involved searching over 4,000 miles across the United States. For years, they held onto hope, holding onto a photograph in their home with a heart marking the empty space where Matthew should have been. This symbol of absence has now been replaced with a new photograph of him, showcasing the family’s deep yearning for reunion and connection.
The reunion was a surprise; the family, which includes Matthew’s parents and two sisters, visited his home in Alaska to rekindle their familial ties. The moment culminated in a heartfelt acknowledgment when Burt Rosen, Matthew’s father, called out his name, leading to a confirmation of his identity from Matthew, who responded affirmatively.
During the reunion, Matthew expressed remorse for the pain he had inadvertently caused his family due to his absence, seeking their forgiveness. The emotional weight of the moment reflected years of uncertainty and despair now transformed into relief and joy.
Since the reunion, the family has maintained contact through regular phone calls and texts, further solidifying their renewed relationship. Burt Rosen, who previously served as the CEO of Knoxville Area Rescue Ministries, has dedicated much of his life to helping others, using his experience from the search for Matthew to inspire his philanthropic efforts.
Inspired by their own journey, the Rosen family is establishing a nonprofit organization called “Hold on to Hope.” This initiative aims to provide support and resources for families searching for missing loved ones, addressing the emotional turmoil and challenges faced during such tragic times. Their mission is to ensure no family feels alone in their search, emphasizing the importance of hope and perseverance.
The Rosens have credited their faith and steadfastness for helping them endure the long years of searching. They believe their story of reunion serves as a testament to hope, encouraging others experiencing similar agonies to continue holding on to their aspirations for reconnecting with their loved ones.
As the family embarks on this new chapter, they plan to dedicate their efforts to “Hold on to Hope,” providing crucial support to other families who are navigating the heartbreaking situations of having a missing loved one. Their experience underlines the importance of resilience and community support in the face of uncertainty.
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Additional Resources
- WBIR: Family reunited with missing son after 25 years
- Knox News: Founder of “Hold on to Hope” reunites with son
- Knox TN Today: The Rosen family’s emotional reunion
- Wikipedia: Missing person
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Missing person
