Daytime Online

"So You Think You Can Dance" judge: Mary Murphy

ADVERTISEMENT

Daytime

Published: March 11, 2010

Reality TV star Mary Murphy at Celebrity Bartending fundraiser
for burned Brandon woman, March 11 at Courtside Grille

Mary Murphy, one of the judges on Fox's reality dance competition "So You Think You Can Dance," revealed in Us Magazine last year that she suffered abuse at the hands of her ex-husband for nine years. Murphy said her unnamed former spouse sexually assaulted her three months into their marriage. She shared painful details of years of beatings and sexual assault, followed by gifts to assuage the abuse. "In the first year or two, I'd fight back, but eventually, I'd just lie there. Get it over with, I thought. It'll be quick anyway."

Murphy is sensitive to the issues of domestic abuse, and has taken up the cause of a local Brandon woman, Audrey Mabrey, an inspiring young mother of two young children who is in a fight for her life.

On November 17, 2009, Audrey's estranged husband struck her in the head with a hammer, doused her in kerosene and set her on fire. With burns to over 80% of her body what the future holds for her is unknown. Prior to this horrific crime, Audrey was working at the Brandon Chili's Grill & Bar and was as well enrolled in a local college.

In the face of all of this adversity, Audrey found inspiration in Mary Murphy's story. Julie Weintraub reached out to Murphy in hopes of an autographed photo or personalized letter. Mary was so moved by Audrey's story, that she instead shifted her schedule and arranged to be at the event in order to show her personal support. Though Audrey has suffered life-altering injuries still not healed, she is committed to reaching the goals she had set forth prior to this incident and uses the success of Murphy as a source for motivation as she struggles each day to find her return to the life she previously knew. Audrey spends time in the burn facility helping other burn patients find the courage and strength to move forward in their healing process. Even in her most challenging of moments she manages to be an inspiration for others.

You've seen her commercials, have heard her on the radio and most definitely have seen her around Tampa Bay supporting numerous charities. Gold and Diamond Source's Julie Weintraub is one of Tampa Bay's most caring and charitable individuals. Most recently, Julie started her own 501 (c) 3, Julie Weintraub's Hands Across the Bay, which supports programs, organizations and individuals whose mission and efforts are dedicated to improving the quality of life in the Bay area. The organization's first event, a Celebrity Bartending, will be held:

March 11th at Courtside Grille from 7-10pm
in St. Petersburg to benefit Audrey.
(110 Fountain Parkway North, St. Petersburg 33716)
Behind the bars pouring drinks and raising money will be:
owner and former NBA Player, Matt Geiger, 620 WDAE The Sports Animals Ian Beckles,
Mix 100.7's Nancy Alexander, Gold and Diamond Source's Julie Weintraub and Mary Murphy.

Many area celebrities will be in attendance to show their support as well, such as: Adam Hayward, Gayle Guyardo, Ryan Nece, Shelton Quarles, Alicia Roberts, Brendan McLaughlin, Lynne Austin, Roxanne Wilder and many more!

Tips and a portion of sales will be donated to Audrey as well as money raised from a raffle that will be held. Julie Weintraub's Hands Across the Bay will also be donating a much needed vehicle to Audrey that evening.

If you are unable to attend but would like to support this amazing mother of two, please contact Melissa Johnson at melissa@handsacrossthebay.com or you can mail a donation to: Hands Across the Bay, Attn: Melissa Johnson 3800 Ulmerton Road, Clearwater, FL 33762

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT