Pierrefonds girl returns after two-week absence

Laura Jame-May, who was reported missing after running away from a Pierrefonds group home two weeks ago once she did not return there after a medical appointment, is now back, The Chronicle has learned.

"She returned to the home on her own today," said Monique La Gagnière, a Montreal group home head office spokesperson. "I can't give you anymore information," she added. "She is healthy and doing well," she added.

The 14-year-old had disappeared on February 25 after showing up to an appointment at the Albert Prévost pavilion of Sacré Coeur Hospital.

"I told the group home I wanted my daughter to get a second medical opinion," Paula May had told The Chronicle yesterday. "But they refused, saying they should decide for the child as she's under their custody now."

Suffering from depression after immigrating to Canada from Romania, Laura-Jame May was put at the Centre de Jeunesse Virginie Pelletier in Pierrefonds/Roxboro since July 2008.

"She wasn't happy at the hospital she was going to," said Paula May.

The mother claimed she had requested to take her to the McGill University Health Centre instead, but was refused.

"She had been having a hard time in her classes," her mother said. "But she was starting to do better."

A visit to the Pierrefonds centre revealed the building in question is not easy to get in or out of. Entering is only allowed through ringing for reception, and leaving is done the same way.