Yes, I think the fear of hiking the WCT could very well have played into Thelmas disappearance. Maybe the WCT isnt Fear Factor for you because you have a lot of backpacking experience and you are in excellent physical and mental health. A person who hiked the West Coast Trail stated in his list of considerations that hikers have died on the WCT and due to the high amount of accidents and injuries that occur every year, I believe him. If the public knew how many hikers died there, businesses would suffer, so Parks Canadas websites says you must be prepared for accidents and injuries and then leave it up to you to decide whether you should go or stay home. Because hikers cross gullies on fallen trees, climb 50 ladders, experience heavy fog and strong winds, etc. I doubt all the bodies that fall are recovered. Because of the breath-taking scenery, some people probably choose to end their lives there. Discussing the risks involved including the possibility you might die there with your family members before you go is imperative imo.
Two websites on the WCT say it is one of the most grueling hikes in North America and careful preparation and planning is required. After they list the major hazards, they ask each individual if they have any doubts about walking the trail, and doubts are the same as fears arent they? They also posted a MUST SEE video on the hazards and after reading and watching the videos, I do have very strong doubts and fears so I will never walk this trail. If I didnt pay attention to my doubts and agreed to go anyway, knowing I could have a fatal accident and die there would be very hard on myself and family.
There is nothing that confirms that by July, 2015, Thelma had done everything she needed to do and was prepared to leave in less than a month's time for the West Coast. Friday evening Thelma and her husband planned to go to CT the following day, and apparently they didnt discuss her trip or what she may have needed to purchase for it. Thelma may very well been upset knowing she could go to the WCT and never return and her family didnt do or say anything to stop her.
http://besthike.com/n-america/pacific-n-w/west-coast-trail/
http://www.westcoasttrail.com/the-trail/
http://www.westcoasttrailbc.com/trail_guidebook_map.htm