What Happened

On Thursday, October 2, a propane gas leak caused a devastating explosion inside a food truck at the Shakori Hills GrassRoots Festival in Chatham County. Ryan was working alongside my husband Eric when the explosion occurred. Both were badly injured and airlifted to the North Carolina Jaycee Burn Center in Chapel Hill. Ryan faces a long and difficult recovery that will include surgeries, burn treatments, and months of rehabilitation.

Ryan works a steady job and had joined Eric at the festival to earn extra income. He’s known for his easy smile and steady presence — the kind of person who works hard, treats everyone with respect, and shows up for others without expecting anything in return.

Now, Ryan needs community to show up for him. The medical expenses, time away from work, and ongoing care will create a heavy financial burden.

This fundraiser will help cover:

About the Organizer

This fundraiser is being organized by Valine Zeigler on behalf of Ryan Mallone, the person who was working with my husband, Eric Zeigler, during the explosion. I've shared this campaign with family friend Angela DuBois and talked to his dad, Neal Malone. The photos for this campaign will be provided by Ryan, and all funds raised here will go directly to him to support his recovery and help cover his expenses until he’s able to return to work. I hope and pray that our community will be as generous — or even more so — in supporting Ryan through his healing journey.

How You Can Help

Every donation — large or small — will make a difference in helping Ryan focus on healing instead of worrying about bills. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this campaign with others who know and love Ryan. Your prayers, messages, and shares mean more than you can imagine.

Thank you for helping Ryan during this painful time. The community has been incredibly generous to Eric and my family — I hope for the same for Ryan.

With gratitude,

Valine Zeigler

(on behalf of the Ryan Malone, family and friends)