DMApothecary reopens in Edgewater after closing due to flooding – NBC Chicago

An Edgewater store that was forced to close after suffering extensive flood damage just months ago has reopened thanks to community donations.

The doors to Deirdre Austin’s dream boutique DMApothecary reopened midday Saturday.

The idea behind the store was a tribute to her late mother, who inspired her to open it in the first place.

“I wish she was here to see it and I know she’s probably with me here in spirit,” Austin told NBC 5 while fighting back tears.

There were also tears of joy, as she didn’t think they would be able to reopen so soon.

“She would be thrilled,” Austin said.

What was already a dream come true at some point has also already turned into a nightmare.

“We got the space in April, opened on September 2, we were on fire. Phenomenal holiday season. On December 28, the wheels came off the bus with the flooding,” Austin said.

She said a pipe burst next to the cold, flooded DMApothecary. He destroyed the items in his store which are all handmade.

“The water was so powerful (it) picked up 25 pounds of butters and oils and moved them to the lobby,” she said. “I was in tears.”

However, an online fundraiser managed to raise more than $7,500 on Saturday to help Austin and his son Matthew Walcott. Their donations allowed them to reopen the store.

“I just want to thank everyone who has supported us,” Walcott told NBC 5.

Austin, a woman of faith, says her mother had to watch over her and spread a message of hope to others.

“I am grateful for the trip. Anyone who has a dream, never give up,” Austin said.

She added that even though her store is open, they are still working to replace the electrical equipment in the soap and candle making classes.

The GoFundMe fundraiser to help DMApothecary continue to make improvements can be found here.