Outpouring of Community Support Expected at Melissa Dohme Benefit

Melissa Dohme was in January.

She nearly lost her life and spent almost three weeks at Bayfront Hospital. She still is recovering today.

She goes to physical therapy several times a week and faces more dental and medical procedures.

Her recovery is miraculous and expensive.

A  from 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday at Crest Lake Park. 

Dawn Lakin, who is organizing the event, said there is a great outpouring of support from the community.

There are flyers all over Clearwater, a digital lighted sign and posts about the event on social media. More than 100 items to raffle have been donated and hundreds of people already said yes to attending the benefit through a Facebook invite.

Many aspects of the event have unique significance.

Dohme needed 12 pints of blood after the attack. In an effort to also help blood donation efforts, a blood mobile will be set up near Crest Lake Park.

"Everybody should roll up their sleeves," Lakin said.

Members of the Clearwater Fire and Rescue squad and Clearwater Police officers that first responded and helped Dohme after she was attacked will also be there, Lakin said.

Dohme and her family after the incident to tighten protections against domestic violence offenders. To help other victims of domestic violence and abuse against women, an information booth on how to get help will be setup.

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

"This is going to be an awesome event," Lakin said. "We hope everyone in the community can come out and join us."

If you go:

What:

When: 3 to 8 p.m.

Where: Crest Lake Park, 201 S. Glenwood Ave.