Cindy Wheatley of Glenwood Springs agonizes about her daughter, Marlene LouElla Rosalie, whom she hasn’t seen since 1986. Today, March 23, is Rosalie’s birthday, and that date is hard for Wheatley to celebrate alone.

Marlene was born in Glenwood Springs in 1971, and lived with her mother in various places in her early years, including homes for battered women. She graduated from high school in California in 1989, and then joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Georgia.

Wheatley said her daughter struggled through many hardships and severe setbacks, yet graduated from high school and entered the military, doing office work. She worked while she was pregnant and had the utmost desire to stabilize her world. Rosalie wanted her children to be free from oppression, and to have contact with Wheatley, and for Wheatley to have contact with her grandchildren.

Rosalie’s children are Craig O’Ryan Rosalie, born Aug. 15, 1991, and Trey DeShon Griffin, born Jan. 19, 1992.

Rosalie and Wheatley wrote and talked to each other until 1995. Because of many hardships and financial difficulties, Wheatley did not have the resources to visit Rosalie, and no one would help her. Wheatley said Rosalie must have moved, because she has not heard from her again.

Wheatley is hoping Rosalie or someone who knows Rosalie will get in touch with her, so that they could possibly begin a family life.

“I hope to experience the natural family ties that go along with having a child and the familiar identity that causes excitement,” Wheatley said.

“Facing reality, Marlene, I regret the passing of time and that I have not come forward as powerfully as has been needed before this,” she continued. “I’ve tried very hard to reach you. Please, Marlene, contact me. I desperately want to hold my grandchildren and see them experience the joy of life.”

To contact Wheatley and help reunite the mother and her daughter, call (970) 366-9440.