Romeo Jacques Cormier is led out of the Moncton courthouse on Thursday. (CBC)

A Moncton woman who turned up Wednesday frightened but safe after allegedly being kidnapped says her family will help her get over the ordeal.

A statement prepared by the woman was read Thursday to reporters by her daughter.

"I'd like to thank my guardian angel — the driver who picked me up moments after my escape," the statement said. "Although my recovery will take time, I know that the strength of my family will help me through."

A court-ordered publication ban prohibits naming the woman, who her relatives say is doing well.

"We sat up all night talking," a family member told reporters Thursday. "And I just couldn't believe, from what she's been through, how great she's doing."

The woman disappeared after leaving her office in downtown Moncton on Feb. 26.

Romeo Jacques Cormier, 62, of Moncton, has been charged with kidnapping, unlawful confinement, sexual assault, theft of money using violence, assault with a weapon and uttering threats. He appeared in provincial court in Moncton on Thursday

The woman alleges she was held captive for almost a month in the basement of the house where Cormier was boarding.

Accused lived in boarding house

Romeo Jaillet said he lives in the same boarding house as Cormier, who moved in last September. Jaillet described Cormier as a nice person. The men said hello to each other every day.

"There was something fishy, because yesterday … I seen him when he went to the food bank, and he asked me … 'Did you see my girlfriend?'" Jaillet said.

"And, you know, I didn't know what he was talking about, so I didn't say nothing else …So, I just kept it like nothing happened."

Another neighbour said he saw a woman on the property on Wednesday.

Shawn Doiron said the woman ran out into the driveway at around noon, wearing a T-shirt and panties, and quickly waved down the driver of a Purolator truck.

"She jumped in the truck; she was really scared," Doiron said. "He kind of looked really scared. He looked toward me, and then he sped off with her."

Codiac RCMP are looking for the public's help with the investigation.

"If you have any information on this investigation, or if you know anything about Mr. Cormier, or you've had previous dealings with him, we're asking you to call us directly," Const. Chantal Farrah said.