Murphy sisters benefit dance features Phase II

Phase II and Friends will be donating their time and talent in aid of two sisters who will undergo surgery together on Oct. 17 in Halifax.

Dawn Murphy Dockendorff needs a new kidney and, fortunately, her family recently received news that, after much testing, Dawn's sister Shelley Murphy, is a match and will donate a kidney to her sister. Funds raised at the benefit will go toward the extra expenses not covered by the health-care system such as travel and lost work.

The dance will be at the Murphy Centre on Richmond Street, Charlottetown, on Friday, Oct. 11. Doors open at 8 p.m., and the music will play from 9 p.m. to midnight. There will also be a silent auction and 50/50 draw.

Tickets are available at the door or they may be purchased in advance by calling Wilfred McKenna at 902-388-5726.

Gerry Hickey, spokesman for Phase II and Friends, is glad to play for the sisters.

"We have done many benefits over the years for total strangers and were always happy to do so. It’s even more special when you have a connection with the people for whom the event is held. In this case, we have a double connection. Shelley and Dawn both attended Stonepark Intermediate School, where I taught for 31 years. I remember both girls as being good students, but also as being great kids,” said Hickey.

“The second connection is to the parents of the girls, Bill and Ruth Murphy. In my 40 years of performing with the Blue Crystals and Phase II, I couldn't count the number of times I have seen Bill and Ruth on the dance floor. They have always been very supportive of our band. Sometimes, life gives us the opportunity to give back, and Phase II and Friends is grateful for the opportunity.”