Family's Home Destroyed Because Of Toxic Mold

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Family's Home Destroyed Because Of Toxic Mold

Parents, Children Suffer From Health Problems

POSTED: 4:44 p.m. EDT September 24, 2002

ABINGTON, Mass. -- The destruction of 153 Road began early

Tuesday morning in Abington. What was once a loving home filled with

children was methodically torn down because of toxic mold.

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" I sat out here and wept Sunday because everything the girls have

made me

since they were babies, everything had to be tossed, " Patrice

said.

" Every toy these girls owned. "

Patrice and Dean moved into the house seven years ago. Since

then, they and their three girls have suffered a variety of

illnesses.

" I was having pneumonia, infections, rashes, back infections,

strep, "

Patrice said.

Their 6-month-old son, , died of bacterial meningitis. His death

has

not been linked conclusively to the toxic mold that was discovered a

year

and a half ago.

" In addition, prior to us buying it, Patrice said one day, 'It seems

musty

down there in cellar,' " Dean said. " I looked in the window and

there

was a foot of water. "

They tried to unsuccessfully to have crews clean the black mold

spores.

But then a new problem arose...they lost their homeowners'

insurance. It

was time to hire a lawyer.

" We're investigating all potential defendants in this case, "

attorney Audrey

Nee said. " Right now, the focus is getting them insurance coverage

after

their current policy was cancelled. We're trying to get that back. "

The cause of the mold is not certain, but the s blame a faulty

septic

system that was built too close to the home.

Despite all that's happened to them, Dean and Patrice said they try

to stay

optimistic even as they watch their dream home reduced to rubble

" It's seven years of hell, " Patrice said. " It's all over.

Tomorrow will

be a better day. "

The s are staying with family, and friends in the construction

business have offered to help them rebuild at a reduced rate.

Neighbors have set up a fund for the family. Donations can be sent

to:

North Abington Co-Operative Bank

6 on Ave.

P.O. Box 68

Abington, MA 02351

(781) 878-0045