Cathy Terkanian was a young mother, only 16 at the time of her daughter’s birth. Despite wanting to raise her child, Cathy’s mother convinced her to place her up for adoption when she was 9 months old. After a closed adoption, Cathy moved on with her life, hoping one day the child she surrendered would seek her out. However, 36 years later, Cathy learned that her daughter, now named Aundria Bowman, has been missing for 21 years. Remains were finally discovered, and police wanted her DNA to see if they matched.
Through Cathy’s own words, law enforcement officials, and those who knew Aundria best, we learn the tragic tale of what happened to her and the incredible journey her biological mother went on to solve her case. What we learn is the truth behind Aundria’s smiling face and the pain of what was going on in the Bowman household.
Amateur sleuths, a Facebook group, and Cathy’s determination all worked to keep Aundria’s case alive and were instrumental in finding the truth. This docu-series is a testament to the bond never broken between Cathy and the young daughter she lost so long ago. (two episodes totaling 151 min.)
—Anna Starkey
This article appears in Nov 14-24, 2024.