Mold claims couple's home: Abington family plans to rebuild on site

September 26, 2002

by Dave Wedge

Wednesday, September 25, 2002

An Abington family who says they've been sickened by toxic mold in their

house tore the home down yesterday after exhaustive losing battles with

insurance companies.

``I'm heartbroken. Heartbroken for my children,'' Patrice said as she

watched the bulldozers wreck her family's Road home. ``But we had no

option. This was the only thing we could do.''

The s discovered last year that the house was contaminated with

dangerously high levels of toxic mold. Doctors have told them that it may be

to blame for a series of ailments the family has suffered.

Patrice has had immune system problems while her husband, Dean, has

been diagnosed with a neurological disorder. Their children have had

infections and strange rashes.

Last year, the couple lost their 6-month-old baby to bacterial meningitis.

It's unknown whether the mold contributed to the child's death, but studies

have shown toxic mold can lead to sudden death in infants.

``It's a terrible thing for a young couple,'' their neighbor, Don Tobin,

said as he watched the demolition. ``They have gone through an awful lot in

a short time. They've lost a child and now they've lost a home.''

The s say they were left with no option but to tear down the house

after they were denied insurance coverage by several companies and lost a

last-ditch appeal to a state-run insurance conglomerate. They are appealing

their case to the state Division of Insurance.

Inspectors have told them that the mold grew from a faulty septic system

that was built too close to the foundation. Their lawyer, Audrey Nee, said

the couple may file suit Friday against one insurance company and is

considering suing the town.

The family tossed out most of their contaminated belongings, including

furniture, clothing and children's toys. But with the help of a family

friend who is a contractor, they are going to rebuild on the site.

``I'm glad. It's closure for the whole thing,'' said Dean , a chef.

``We can move on with our life and build a new home. But it's going to be

tough.''

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