I'm very sorry and sad that this happened to you. I am certain you are a very nice and generous person. You sound very smart and articulate in your writing.
I was just thinking though, is there any reason your ph might not have picked up on all those messages with it turned off after that much time? I am not an expert on phones, it was just a thought.
Anyway, I wish you a Merry Christmas and hope you are well. (((BIG HUGS)))