CLEARWATER, FL -- Audrey Mabrey is a 26-year-old mother of two little boys whose life has changed forever.
It happened on November 17, 2009. Mabrey says it was that day her husband, Christopher Hanney, lost control.
"I would describe it that he just snapped. I swallowed some gasoline, I was on fire. It is one of the worst injuries to go through. My doctors say it will be at least a year before I can even function on my own."
Hillsborough County Deputies have charged Hanney with first degree attempted murder and arson. Investigators said Mabrey was hit in the head with a hammer and doused with lighter fuel. She spent weeks in critical care at Tampa General Hospital's burn unit.
Mabrey says, "My injuries are so bad people stare. But, I am at the point I really don't care anymore."
There are plenty of people who care about her. Even those that don't even know her.
Julie Weintraub, who owns Gold and Diamond Source with her husband Steve in Clearwater, has taken up Mabrey's cause.
Weintraub just launched her non-profit Hands Across the Bay. Her first event will benefit Mabrey.
"I just could not believe when I heard what happened to her. I just had to help. Years earlier, when my husband and I did not really have the cash, we donated jewelry. Now, I am able to do more and I want to help make a difference in her life."
ABC Action News was there when Weintraub spoke to the woman she is trying to help for the first time. She broke down in tears as she told Mabrey, "We are all going to be there and we are going to have an awesome time."
At the Courtside Grille this Thursday, Weintraub's charity is hosting a celebrity bartending fundraiser.
In attendance will be reality TV star Mary Murphy, one of the judges on Fox's reality dance competition "So You Think You Can Dance". Recently Murphy revealed she was a victim of domestic violence. Mabrey had reached out to her and Weintraub wanted to make sure Murphy could attend.
"It is great that she wants to be here. It will help raise money for this young woman who really needs it. I am hoping for a huge turnout."
ABC Action New anchor Brendan McLaughlin will also be there supporting the cause.
Mabrey says, "I just can't believe how much people care. I want to get back on my feet so I can take care of my little boys."
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