Eighteen days after a fire broke out at her home, Paula McGladrey remains in hospital.
McGladrey was the woman inside the townhouse on Greengate Road in Guelph on Jan. 31, when the fire – believed by police to have been set deliberately – began.
She suffered severe burns, and required skin grafts.
“She’s off the ventilator. She’s talking, but she’s in a lot of pain,” her father Lloyd McGladrey, told CTV News.
Her son was also home at the time, and was treated in hospital for minor injuries. He’s been living with a friend ever since.
Their townhouse was destroyed.
A man named Francisco Silveri faces a number of charges, including arson and attempted murder, in connection with the fire.
Family members say McGladrey did not know Silveri.
Meanwhile, McGladrey’s family and friends are rallying behind her as she continues her recovery.
“She’s always looked after herself and her son on her own. She’s going to need some help to get back on her feet,” said Angie Walser, a friend and former coworker.
Walser is organizing a fundraising event to take place in the spring.
A trust account has also been set up in McGladrey’s name.
Lloyd McGladrey says he’s grateful for Walser’s efforts.
“It means everything. I’m very indebted to her,” he said.
