Kayla Unbehaun, Who Vanished at 9, Was Found after Dad Prayed Every Day for 6 Years to Find Her Alive

For six long years, Ryan Iskerka never lost hope of finding his daughter, Kayla Unbehaun, after she was taken from him in 2017. Every single day, he prayed for her safe return, holding onto the belief that one day they would be reunited. The circumstances surrounding Kayla’s abduction were heartbreaking. Her mother, Heather, who had no legal right to take her, kidnapped her during a camping trip. Despite Ryan winning sole custody of Kayla after a prolonged legal battle, Heather’s actions tore their family apart, leaving Ryan with a void that no amount of time could heal.

As the years passed, Ryan remained determined to find his daughter. He never gave up on the hope that one day she would come home, even though it seemed increasingly unlikely with each passing year. The police continued to investigate, but the trail went cold, and for a while, it seemed like Kayla had vanished without a trace.

Then, in May 2023, a breakthrough finally came. A store clerk in North Carolina recognized Kayla while she was shopping with Heather. The clerk immediately alerted the authorities, setting off a chain of events that would lead to the reunion Ryan had dreamed of for so long. Heather was arrested, and Kayla was safely returned to Ryan, who was overwhelmed with relief and gratitude. It was a moment of unimaginable joy, tempered only by the years of pain and uncertainty they had both endured.

In the aftermath of the emotional reunion, Ryan expressed his profound thanks to everyone who had kept Kayla’s case alive throughout the years. He acknowledged the tireless efforts of law enforcement and the community, whose dedication made this miracle possible. At the same time, he asked for privacy as he and Kayla began the delicate process of rebuilding their relationship, which had been fractured by years of separation and hardship.

Ryan’s unwavering hope and devotion to his daughter ultimately paid off, but the journey to bring Kayla home was long and filled with uncertainty. Now, with his daughter safe by his side, he could finally begin the process of healing, knowing that their story would inspire others who may be facing similar struggles.