A Bay area teen who survived what authorities said was a stabbing at the hands of a local sex offender is back home.

A recovering Ashley Lyon, 16, sat with her mother at a fundraiser put on by the community to raise money for the family.

Ashley’s family has been trying to get some normalcy back in their lives and they’ve stayed out of the public eye while Ashley’s been recovering.

On Saturday they came to Sluggers Bar and Grill in Brandon to say thank you for all of the support.

"It's absolutely phenomenal, the outreach that the community has shown us," said Ashley's father Roger Lyon. "These people are absolutely wonderful. It really tugs my heartstrings to see how much people care."

It was the 16-year-old’s first public appearance since a nationwide manhunt and media coverage helped bring her home.

On June 11, investigators said Lyon left her Valrico home with two-time sex offender 41-year-old Steven Myers.

Ashley’s parents asked the public for help, for her safe return. After a week on the run, a Louisiana truck stop clerk recognized Lyon and Myers.

The tip sparked a 40-mile police pursuit and authorities say it ended with Myers stabbing Ashley at least 10 times, then stabbing himself.

Myers is now behind bars.

Ashley's parents say their focus is now on their daughter’s health and sharing their story to help other parents.

The money raised will go toward out of pocket medical expenses, therapy, and traveling to Louisiana for court, where Steven Myers is facing attempted murder charges.

Myers is also facing a slew of other charges in Hillsborough County including interfering with child custody, attempted sexual activity with minors and traveling to meet a minor.