In a deeply personal and emotional revelation, Gerry McCann has shared the profound reasons why his family has never returned to Portugal since the devastating disappearance of his daughter Madeleine seventeen years ago.
The heartbroken father explained that the beautiful Algarve coastline, once a place of happy family holidays, became permanently associated with unimaginable trauma after three-year-old Madeleine vanished from their holiday apartment in Praia da Luz in May 2007.
The Weight of Painful Memories
"It would be too painful," Gerry confessed during the intimate interview. "The association with what happened there is just too strong."
The McCanns have consciously avoided the country where their world collapsed, despite maintaining hope that one day they might discover what happened to their daughter. The mere thought of returning to the scene of their family's greatest tragedy remains overwhelming even after nearly two decades.
A Permanent Scar
The medical consultant revealed that while the family has tried to create new happy memories elsewhere, the shadow of Madeleine's disappearance continues to shape their lives and decisions. The Portuguese resort that was supposed to be a place of relaxation and joy transformed overnight into the epicentre of their ongoing nightmare.
"The beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes that once brought us pleasure now only serve as reminders of our loss," Gerry shared, his voice heavy with emotion.
Seventeen Years of Unanswered Questions
Despite numerous investigations, sightings, and theories over the years, Madeleine's disappearance remains one of the most high-profile missing person cases in modern history. The McCann family's decision to never return to Portugal underscores the deep and lasting impact of the tragedy.
The couple, who also have twins Sean and Amelie, have channeled their grief into campaigning for missing children worldwide, establishing the Find Madeleine campaign that continues to operate to this day.
As the investigation into Madeleine's disappearance continues, Gerry's heartfelt admission serves as a poignant reminder that for the McCann family, some wounds never fully heal, and some places remain forever marked by sorrow.
