As Christopher Starnes was leaving an establishment in Dade City on a spring afternoon, he expected nothing other than to return home to his family – instead he woke up in a hospital.
As he was leaving the business, he was brutally attacked by two men.
He sustained a head injury, spent five weeks in a coma and underwent several surgeries to stop internal bleeding.
After returning home from a long stay at the hospital, the community was astonished by how well he was progressing.
“They said they had never seen anything like him,” said John Dragneff, of the Trilby Masonic Lodge 141.
Starnes had recovered and had gone back to work, but then suffered a relapse and had to undergo another brain operation.
To help him, Trilby Masonic Lodge 141 is hosting a benefit called Trilby’s Great Steak Dinner.
The event will be on Dec. 15, at the Dan Cannon Auditorium at the Pasco County Fairgrounds, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
With a $40 admission fee, the night includes a meal, dancing and a live performance by the Johnny Shelton Band. There also will be chance drawings.
Those who are coming will need to come hungry: The meal will consist of a 1-pound steak, baked potato, green beans, salad and a dinner roll.
Dragneff organized the benefit because of his close association with Starnes.
Most of the proceeds from the event will be used to help cover Starnes’ medical expenses.
A small portion will go to funding Masonic Lodge 141 youth activities, including the Trilby Boy Scouts.
For more information, call John Dragneff at (352) 206-2002 or email him at .
Trilby’s Great Steak Dinner
Where: Dan Cannon Auditorium at Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52 in Dade City
When: Dec. 15 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Cost: $40
Details: The fundraiser for Christopher Starnes will include live music, dancing, raffles and a steak dinner.
Info: Contact John Dragneff at (352) 206-2002 or .
Published December 5, 2018
