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Couple survives Grafton boat explosion but still needs help

Dennis and his wife were on their way home from a St. Charles fundraiser Saturday when the couple's wooden leisure boat exploded.
Credit: Clancy, Samuel

GRAFTON, Ill. — A couple survived a boat explosion in Grafton Saturday, but they are still looking for help with their recovery.

Dennis Day is a Grafton alderman and U.S. Coast Guard Captain. He's used to being on the water, but his last boat ride almost turned deadly for him and his wife Beverly.

Dennis and his wife were on their way home from a St. Charles fundraiser Saturday when the couple's wooden leisure boat exploded. They were by a fueling area near the mouth of the Grafton Harbor when it happened.

The incident left him with second-degree burns all over his body. Half of Beverly's body is burned, including her face, arms and legs. She can't speak, is on a ventilator and is using a feeding tube. They are recovering at Mercy Hospital in Creve Coeur.

Day said he's incredibly grateful for the thousands of emails and prayers that have been sent their way. He said the community's support means so much to him and his family. He's also grateful his daughters are at the hospital supporting them every step of the way.

A Go Fund Me page has been set up to help the family with their increasing medical costs. You can click here if you would like to help the family out.

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