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Home for Christmas: McCook business owner welcomed home after life-altering accident
McCOOK Neb.- Monday marked a heartwarming moment for the McCook community as local entrepreneur Thatcher Skolout returned home after a nine-month journey of hospitalization and rehabilitation. His homecoming, just in time for Christmas, has been celebrated as a testament to the power of community support.
Thatcher’s ordeal began on March 11, 2024, when a propane tank exploded while he was attempting to create a smoker for his business, Iron Oak Smokers LLC. Despite his careful safety measures – such as wearing a respirator and filling the tank with water to displace residual vapors – a hidden pocket of gas ignited when he made contact with a cutting torch. The explosion, which propelled him nearly 15 feet, left him with critical injuries that required immediate medical attention.
After being rushed to Community Hospital in McCook, Thatcher was airlifted to Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney for extensive care. He spent three and a half weeks in the intensive care unit before moving to Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital in Omaha, where he underwent three months of rigorous therapy. His recovery continued at QLI in Omaha, where he received further physical rehabilitation.
Throughout this challenging period, the McCook community rallied around Thatcher and his family, offering prayers, encouragement, and unwavering support. His wife, Shelby Skolout, frequently updated the community on his progress, expressing deep gratitude for the outpouring of love during their difficult journey.
Residents gathered along Norris Avenue to welcome Thatcher back. As he arrived, escorted by police and fire trucks, onlookers held “Welcome Home” signs and cheered, celebrating not only his return but also the resilience shown throughout the past months. Friends, family, and community members were among the supporters who expressed joy and pride in Thatcher’s recovery.
“This is by far the biggest blessing I could have ever wished for. I am so grateful to be coming home,” Thatcher shared on social media before his arrival. “This is many answered prayers, and it’s not over yet – I still have a long way to go. But thank you all for your support; your prayers worked.”
Thatcher’s wife, Shelby, also reflected on the significance of this moment, describing it as a “sweet Christmas miracle.”
Community members, including JoAnne Allen and her husband Ron, voiced their sentiments. JoAnne said, “It’s just sweet – it’s many prayers answered.” The Marts family, including Kate, Hannah, and Kennedy, proudly held signs declaring “Home for Christmas.”