558 days of hell. Two souls united in body and spirit. One Almighty God. This is the story of Yolande and Pierre Korkie, who were kidnapped by Al Qaeda, as told by Yolande.

Pierre never survived to tell the tale. In this touching story, Yolande relives the couple’s kidnapping and brutal severance from their children and life as they knew it. From the moment they were kidnapped until Yolande’s release and then through to Pierre’s tragic death during a failed rescue attempt, 558 Days recounts the Korkies’ horrific ordeal.

This is the true story of a level of love that few couples will ever experience; of faith that grows stronger through adversity and of forgiveness that is more powerful than human boundaries. This is the story of 558 Days.

Also included are 16 pages of full-colour photos from Yolande’s personal photo album, excerpts from Pierre’s personal journals written while in captivity and a moving letter written by Yolande to Pierre after his death.

About the Author

Yolande Korkie is the widow of Pierre and mother of Peter and Lize. Born in the USA, but grown on South African soil, she holds a master’s degree in Psychology and a diploma in Pastoral Counselling. As Pierre’s helpmate, she supported him in his endeavours as if they were her own; farming, mentoring, and Yemen. There she lived the language through teaching, relief work and equestrian activities. She is currently living in South Africa and Yolande lectures at the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein.