PERRY, Utah – A northern Utah community rallied together Friday for five boys burned in a gas can explosion earlier this month.
Over a hundred friends, family and community members packed The Peak, a local gym and preschool.
“It warms your heart to see how many people are reaching out to these boys and their families,” says Karen Crolin.
Her son Spencer, was one of the boys burned. Spencer’s injuries were only minor. He says it was a very scary experience, but he’s mostly concerned about his friend Tayton Winward, who is still in the hospital recovering from 2nd and 3rd degree burns.
“I feel really grateful that they’re coming here for this little boy who is in critical condition,” says Spencer.
Mostly, Spencer says they’re trying to state positive. That’s the goal according to organizers. They hope to raise at least $10,000 to help the families with medical bills. The accident rocked this small community and organizers hope the fundraiser will turn a negative experience into a positive one.
“It make all the parents question the safety of their children,” says organizer Mardi Obray. “I said if we’re going to do a fundraiser, let's do it right.”
The night out included games, a bake sale, silent auction and a visit from Santa Claus. The fun and games were a small way to give the families of the victims something to smile about.
“I think it affects everybody,” says Willard resident Steffanie Jacobson. “We have a pretty close community. I think everybody just likes to support and help everybody.”
Cronin says she’s received phone calls from all over the state from people wanting to help. She says the biggest insight they take from the experience is to cherish every moment with their kids.
“Just take an extra minute to give your kids and extra hug and let them know how much you love them,” says Cronin. “Because truly we don’t know how long we each have.”
A fund has been set up at Zion’s Bank for Tayton Winward. For more information on donating to the Perry boys, contact The Peak at (435) 723-1280 or www.peakkids.com.
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Five boys burned in Box Elder Co. explosion
