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