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Musical benefit to aid accident victims


The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 07/03/08

Local musicians, businesses and residents are banding together tonight to help out two Decatur women who were seriously injured in an auto accident last month.

Amy Sarrell, 23, and Leah Helfen, 21, were riding home on Helfen's scooter when they were struck by a car on Howard Avenue on June 7. The two women, who were wearing helmets, were thrown at least 20 feet down the road by the impact.

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They were recently released from the hospital, but they will be out of work for at least six months with broken legs, concussions and a variety of other health woes, said Daphne Green, their roommate and a manager at JavaMonkey Decatur.

The coffeehouse, at 425 Church St., is hosting a day-long silent auction today and a benefit tonight, with all proceeds going to the medical and living expenses for the injured women. Neither Sarrell, a long-time JavaMonkey employee, or Helfen, a student at Georgia Perimeter College, have health insurance.

Donated items in the auction include artwork from local artists, as well as gift certificates from downtown Decatur restaurants and businesses, Green said. Because of donations from distributors, JavaMonkey will sell $3 beers and $5 glasses of wine until supplies run out, with all proceeds going to Sarrell and Helfen.

At 8 p.m., three local bands will take the stage for free: Gently, The Bangers and It's Elephants. There will be no cover, though donation jars will be available.

Those who can't make the benefit can also contribute to the Amy and Leah Donation Fund at Decatur First Bank.

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