What happened Sunday at the American Legion Post 99 was more than a fund-raiser. It was part of a slow, steady march to life before 2:30 p.m. on September 12.
That was the time and date when a gas explosion destroyed the Schuller family's house in south Minneapolis. Everyone survived, but father David Schuller was burned on his face and neck, and 10-year-old Olivia was hospitalized after she was pulled from the rubble. She's now in the middle of a four-month "take it easy" period, ordered by her doctor, temporarily keeping her away from karate, basketball and skiing.
"She still knows how close she came to dying," David Schuller said. "Occasionally, it gets to the surface and she wells up a little but but does a really good job of dealing with it."
To help the Schullers, friends and neighbors organized a benefit Sunday afternoon. Part of the proceeds will also help two neighbors, whose homes were damaged by the explosion.
"It's really refreshing to see what society can do, what your community can do when they're called to task," said benefit organizer Brad Laudert.
The family recently picked a builder and construction on a new home should begin soon. They hope the home will be finished in March. Still, some things will never be the same.
"A lot of folks are like, 'Oh, it's so great you're going to get a new house and all these new things,'" David Schuller said. "We just want our old stuff back."
It's a long road to normalcy, but step by step, the Schullers are getting back to September 12, 2:30 p.m.
"We're super grateful to our community," Schuller said. "Our friends and family and neighbors have just been outstanding."
The family has set up a fund. Donations can be made at any TCF Bank, in benefit of the Schuller family.
(Copyright 2009 by KARE. All Rights Reserved).
