Melissa Dohme Benefit Draws Crowd of Community Support

Hundreds of supporters crowded Crest Lake Park for the .

Families, friends, and members of the community came out to the event to help support . Dohme is making a miraculous recovery after .

Dave Dohme, Melissa's father, said supporters came from as far as New Port Richey. Others found out through Facebook and other social media means.

"It is amazing how people come together, even strangers, when tragedies occur," he said. "People forget about themselves and focus on the cause everyone else is focusing on."

The event featured featured a kids zone with games, face painting, crafts, and a bounce house as well as food, a raffle and live entertainment.

Anna Myers, one of Dohme's high school teachers, volunteered at a booth in the kids zone.

"I am honored to help out an amazing girl who is an inspiration to us all," Myers said.

Ashleigh Deasey baked goods to sell in support of Dohme's recovery.

"I've worked with Melissa for a year, we're best friends, she's like a sister to me," Deasey said. "It felt really great to come out and help her with her recovery."