Honestly, I have no idea how she lost it, either. But she's the type who's very altruistic and caring, and I'm pretty sure she gave it away to one of my older cousins.
Hahah, I'm in the same boat as you are. I became attracted to the Gucci satchel because it reminded me of the speedy; admittedly, I stopped "pursuing the need" to get a speedy because practically everyone had one (I got a petite bucket, instead!). And you're right, they still look really good for their age...gah, all this talk makes me want to get one now.