A family that faced the unthinkable after their RV exploded at a rest stop in Cumberland County shortly before Thanksgiving is continuing to fight for their mot
her, Melinda VanNewkirk, who has been on life support now for weeks.
The VanNewKirk's son, Ryan, told CBS21 that Melinda had stepped out to smoke a cigarette, but didn't smell the propane leak.When the chemicals mixed, the explosion ignited, damaging other cars and destroying the VanNewkirk's only mode of transportation in the process. When Ryan finally had the chance to see his mom and dad on Thanksgiving, the circumstances were much different.Duane was released from the hospital a little while after being treated for his injuries. He was inside the RV when the explosion happened.
Ryan said his mother will have instances of consciousness and recognition, only to fall unconscious again afterwards. The doctors at Lehigh Valley ended up having to amputate both of Melinda's feet just above the ankle.
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