Rita Chretien has returned to Penticton, following her seven-week ordeal in the Nevada wilderness.
Chretien continues her recovery at Penticton Regional Hospital after being released from a Twin Falls, Idaho hospital Tuesday.
According to Chretien’s physician, she is doing well physically and is in relatively good spirits in light of what she’s been through. She is eating small meals and is tolerating an advancing diet.
The 56-year-old woman was found by hunters last Friday after being reported missing since March 19 when she left Penticton with her husband Al Chretien to attend a business convention in Las Vegas. She survived on her faith and by rationing what little food and vitamins she had. The rescuers found Rita on a remote forestry service road near the Idaho and Nevada border. The search is continuing for Al Chretien.
The Chretien family would again like to extend their sincere appreciation for the outpouring of well wishes they have received.
“As Rita Chretien and her family continues to deal with this terrible ordeal and the ongoing search for her husband Albert Chretien, Mrs. Chretien has asked that the media and public respect her personal request for privacy at this time being,” said Cpl. Dan Moskaluk. “She and her family have again conveyed their most sincerest gratitude and appreciation for the support and prayers sent on their behalf since March.”
Penticton RCMP continues to assist the Chretien family and maintains an active file with Albert Chretien still classified as a missing person.