Domestic violence victim turns experience into good works - Tbo.com

APOLLO BEACH --

It has been two years since Covington Park resident Audrey Mabrey was brutalized and set on fire by her estranged husband, Christopher Hanney.

Hanney, 46, was found guilty in January of attempted murder, aggravated battery and arson and sentenced in March to life plus 60 years.

Mabrey, now 29, was burned on more than 80 percent of her body and almost died. Many women would have given up or turned bitter over the incident, but she has turned the horrific experience into something positive by becoming an advocate for other victims of domestic violence.

"Because of the prayers and financial support the community gave me, I'm not only surviving, I'm thriving," she said. "When this happened to me, the community jumped in and embraced me and my family, which in turn inspired me to do the same for others."

Mabrey is hosting a fundraiser from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday called the Family Field & Fun Day to support Megan Kimbrough, 26, a Lakeland woman in critical condition at Tampa General Hospital after an act of domestic violence Aug. 3.

Police say her 32-year-old husband, Joshua, doused her with gasoline and then set her on fire inside their Polk County home. He is in jail awaiting trial for attempted murder, arson and other charges.

Kimbrough also suffered burns on more than 80 percent of her body.

The fundraiser will help pay for her medical expenses, future surgeries and everyday needs, said Mabrey, who now lives in Brandon.

Admission to the event is free but there is a $6 wristband charge to participate in all of the games and activities, which will include a tug of war, potato sack and relay races, bouncy house and more. Individual game tickets will be $1 and a barbecue meal with a drink will cost $4.

The festivities will include appearances by American Idol contestant Jay Rosenburg and singer Ann P, and a prize drawing for adults and kids will include a two-day stay at the Vinoy Renaissance Resort, St. Petersburg; diamond and amethyst necklace; Florida Aquarium tickets and Bulls basketball tickets.

Covington Park is off Big Bend Road between Interstate 75 and U.S. 41 in Apollo Beach. For further information or directions, email audreymay83@yahoo.com.