Widow Loses Home In Explosion Weeks After Husband’s Death, Maryland Family Says

By Zak Failla From Daily Voice

A Maryland woman already grieving the loss of her husband of 60 years is now trying to rebuild her life all over again after her home exploded less than a month later — destroying every single thing she owned between Thanksgiving and Christmas, her family says.

According to a fundraiser created by her granddaughter, Tiffany Watroba, the explosion happened on the evening of Monday, Dec. 1. 

Watroba wrote that “my grandmother Mary Swope’s life changed forever. Her house exploded, and in an instant, she lost everything she owned—clothes, blankets, family heirlooms, her cell phone, medicine, and even her shoes.”

Watroba said the only things that survived the fire were “my grandfather’s urn, her cherished photo albums, and their Bibles.” 

Mary Swope’s life changed forever when her home exploded, according to family in Maryland.

GoFundMe

She also noted that Swope had just lost her husband on Nov. 6.

Mary Swope’s life changed forever when her home exploded, according to family in Maryland.

GoFundMe

Swope and her dog, Shooby, were able to escape, according to her family, but they face more difficulties ahead. 

Watroba explained that Shooby “had to spend the night at the vet for oxygen treatments and is still being monitored for eye injuries.” 

She added that Swope is currently staying with family and “has nothing left except the sweatpants and sweatshirt we could give her.”

"She is without her medications and the basic comforts of home."

In an update, Watroba shared that “Shooby is back with her Mama!” adding that the dog was “so exhausted, but so happy to be back home with Mary.”

Watroba said the pair “both have a very long road still, but we are thankful for everyone who has helped lessen the load.”

Loved ones said that they are now raising funds to help Mary replace essentials like clothing, shoes, and personal items, as well as to cover Shooby’s ongoing medical care, including her arthritis medications.

The GoFundMe can be found here.

"Any support will also help with medical expenses that may arise as Mary recovers from this tragedy," Watroba added. "Anything helps—if you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser." 

"We know it’s so close to Christmas, but any help right now would mean the world to Mary and our family."