CHANDLER, Ariz. – There was no warning before the blast. No sound, no smell, no siren. No deep rumble to stir unease.
Dillon Ryan was sitting at his computer in his family-owned print shop in a Chandler strip mall. Suddenly, something bright and yellow flashed over his left shoulder, and the next thing he knew, he was flat on his back, staring up at the cloudless sky. The ceiling had been blown away.
The explosion had decimated the print shop, leaving behind the smell of burning metal and small spot fires amid the debris. Dillon and his employee, Parker Milldebrandt, managed to get to their feet and clamber over machines and rubble to escape the building. As they made their way outside, they saw the devastation and realized the gravity of the situation.
In the midst of the chaos, the fear of losing his brother consumed Dillon. However, Andrew emerged from the smoke, leading to a wave of relief for Dillon. The brothers, along with bystanders, gathered in the parking lot, tending to the injured and scared individuals.
Dillon’s injuries were extensive and required a lengthy recovery process. He spent two weeks in the hospital followed by six days in a rehabilitation facility, eventually returning home to continue healing.
The explosion significantly impacted Dillon and his family, leading to a reevaluation of priorities and a shift in perspective. This life-altering event prompted Dillon to prioritize his family and reevaluate his work-life balance. His experience serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments with loved ones.
The recovery process was long and arduous, filled with difficult moments and emotional challenges. However, Dillon’s determination and the support of his family propelled him forward, and he eventually found purpose in focusing on his family and their well-being.
Now, Dillon spends as much time as he can with his family, cherishing every moment and prioritizing their well-being. The experience of the explosion has reshaped his outlook on life, emphasizing the importance of relationships and the fleeting nature of material possessions.
In the aftermath of the explosion, a settlement was reached with Southwest Gas and Chevron Phillips, providing a sense of closure and resolution for Dillon and his family. They have chosen to focus on moving forward and rebuilding their lives, leaving the past behind while embracing a new sense of purpose and gratitude.