BARDSTOWN, Ky. (LEX 18) — As the coronavirus has spread across Kentucky, many lives and careers have stopped or slowed down.
But even during a pandemic, Sherry Ballard has to continue to wait for answers in the disappearance of her daughter, Crystal Rogers, and the death of her husband, Tommy.
She has remained a positive force and source of strength for her family. But she's also relied on the kindness and support from the community, which is affected by the pandemic.
"We miss all of our friends, and I know with the quarantine, it has put a lot on hold that I don't want to be on hold," said Ballard.
As life has slowed, Ballard still holds on to hope for justice.
"When I think about them, I feel like I haven't seen them in forever," said Ballard.
But she doesn't have to look far for signs of her still-missing daughter, Crystal, which are still posted throughout Bardstown.
While seeking answers and now trying to navigate life through a pandemic, Ballard has continued to move forward and raising her grandchildren who are wrapping up a school year like none other.
"They keep up with their homework, they have really good grades, and I'm very proud of them," said Ballard.
This week, they're helping Sherry clean a rental home. This is the same task she used to take on with her late husband.
"It just takes me back for a minute. I have to collect my thoughts and just try to move on. And that's just what I try to do," said Ballard.
Tommy Ballard was shot and killed one year after Crystal disappeared. There are no charges in either case.
"I don't...I don't think my pain will ever stop. Yeah, my pain will never stop," said Ballard.
Despite the wait and the heartache, she remains optimistic, strong and positive for her family. One day, maybe soon she hopes, she'll receive the phone call she's waited on for years.
"It's hard because I feel like nothing's happening right now, and I can't handle that thinking nothing's happening. I know it's going to one day, but I want that to be yesterday," said Ballard.
