The ‘mystery woman’, who was found in California suffering from ovarian cancer and severe amnesia, has finally been identified.
The woman was found on the coast of California, and had to be rushed to hospital to undergo an emergency oophorectomy, and hysterectomy to save her life.
Due to her severe amnesia, the woman (who nicknamed herself “Sam”) had no idea who she was or where she came from, apart from a few vague memories of Australia.
However, after weeks of not knowing who she is, the mystery of the ‘lost Australian woman’ has finally been solved.
Her name is Ashley Menatta, she is 53 years old, and she was born in Pennsylvania.
Ashley lived in Arizona for most of her life, and recently moved to Southern California where she was found.
Her connection to Australia, it turns out, were just memories of extended trips that she took years ago. Menatta apparently took many over the course of her life.
“Apparently I have a long time of visiting Australia for extended trips,” Ms Menatta said, “I’ve been going there throughout my life.”
After seeing her video appeal (above) on the news, Ashley was identified by her nephew.
“It was extremely emotional, we were all sobbing,” said Ashley of her identification, “They’re so sorry I had to go through what I did during this time without them.”
Ashley has announced she will be flying to Maryland to live with her sister.
“She was just telling me she has a four-bedroom large house and a lovely king size bed waiting for me,” said Ashley.
