NEW ORLEANS -- Long lines formed outside the Bridge House in New Orleans for the annual Thanksgiving Day celebration for the homeless.
Among the dozens of volunteers, a famous chef from the Ritz-Carlton Hotel lent a hand. For Chef Matt Murphy, it's not about where he spent the morning, it's more about where he's been for most of the year.
In May, Murphy slipped on a child's toy at his home, hurt his knee and ended up with rare bacterial infection that almost killed him.
After months of rehab, three near death experiences and 19 surgeries, he's back and giving thanks for the gift of life.
"I'm happy to be still here," said Murphy. "I had a crazy illness and it almost took my life and I'm still here. So, give back a little bit to the community now, a little bit more you know."
The hospitality industry rallied around Murphy and his family which includes quadruplets and another baby. He said helping the homeless is the least he can do.
"I was just over in the hotel, we were setting up for our brunch, you know 5 a.m. I got about two hours now before we're really slammed over there, so I said I'm going to come over here and help at Bridge House," said Murphy.
Those enjoying the Thanksgiving meal said they appreciate Murphy's efforts and those of the many other volunteers.
"I'm grateful to all the people who took the time and I'm grateful to God for helping us out with something to eat today," said Dan Mathey.
"It's really great," said Rhonda Hess. "It's totally awesome the way they all help us out here right now."
Murphy returned the Ritz just in time for the afternoon rush.
"It's funny," said Murphy. "After doing this for so many years, probably the best thing was just getting back in the kitchen. It was good rehab for me."
Murphy said given everything he's been through this year, just to be able to work a long day at the Ritz and Bridge House is the perfect way to start a holiday season where he says he and his family are truly blessed.
"For culinary, this is the pinnacle, some of the best days in the kitchen, but then again, also on the flip side of it, when you go over to Bridge House and help out, you know it fills you heart that you're actually helping out and you get that moment in time," said Murphy.
He said his doctor had eight patients with similar infections that led to his bout with toxic-shock syndrome.
This Thanksgiving, he is the only one alive to talk about it.
