[That gets a soft smile.]

I am glad. While it was heartening to discover that you were all still around, it was difficult not to worry...

[Since, y'know, they were still dead in a way.]

...I can also say that you all were a big support for us as well. I believe our conversations with you all and your show of determination gave us the big push we needed to do some major investigation on our end.

[They ended up finding things, too! It felt like progress, and that meant a ton when things were pretty bleak for all sides.]