CHANDLER, Ariz. – On Feb. 5, 2024, customers stepped inside All-American Eyeglass Repair for the first time since a devastating blast at a print shop two years prior. The explosion left four people injured and caused significant damage to the building. One of the individuals injured in the explosion was Glenn Jordan, the general manager of the eyeglass repair shop who was now back on duty, serving customers at the front desk.
Recalling the traumatic experience, Jordan described being blown back several feet by the force of the explosion, with debris flying around and causing serious burns to 40% of his body. Following months of physical and occupational therapy, Jordan was determined to return to his job. And on Feb. 5, 2024, that day finally came.
“It’s one of those days you kind of wake up, and feel like it’s your birthday or anniversary to get back in the store that you spent a lot of time at,” said Jordan. “I’m looking forward to seeing more smiles from people. I made it, we’re good, I feel great, we’re going to move on from this,” he continued.
The blast, caused by an unintentional natural gas leak from a neighboring print shop, resulted in a long road to recovery for Jordan and the entire community but ultimately paved the way for a triumphant return to normalcy for the eyeglass repair shop.
As customers and employees returned to the repaired store, the resilience and determination of those affected by the explosion were on full display. The reopening of All-American Eyeglass Repair served as a testament to the strength and perseverance of the Chandler community.