ENGULFED IN A FIREBALL

Susan Power, 50, couldn't recognise herself after a horrific accident

- VERONIQUE HAWKSWORTH, CANDICE FERNANDEZ

Sitting on patio chairs in our friends’ garden, my husband Wayne and I chatted away, enjoying a Saturday night of socialising. It was 2021 and Tom* and Laura* had invited us over.

After a busy week working at my dog grooming business, a few relaxing drinks was just what I needed. Plus, with Mother’s Day coming up the next day, I knew my three kids would bring me breakfast in bed as they always did and let me have a nice lie-in. I couldn’t wait.

We were having a great time watching the sun begin to set, but feeling a chill in the air, Laura pulled out her favourite glass kerosene lamp for some light and warmth. That’s when everything changed. The second she lit it, there was an ear-splitting bang and I jumped up as kerosene splashed on to my chest, arms and face.

I had no time to react as a big fireball hurtled towards me, igniting my arms. Dropping to the ground as the fire engulfed my body, I tried desperately to extinguish the flames, frantically patting myself and rolling around on the floor. My vision obscured by the fire, I could hear Laura’s screams, as she, Tom and Wayne tried to put me out.

‘Help,’ I cried, flailing in panic as the flames scorched my throat. The pain was excruciating but adrenaline seemed to numb it and as Wayne managed to rip off my linen shirt and tank top, Tom sprayed me with the garden hose and Laura phoned for an ambulance.

FADING TO BLACK

I could hear them all frantic and panicking around me, and as the fire went out, my adrenaline rush subsided and agonising pain seared through my body.