With a little help from the community, Austin's well-known, eclectic cross-dresser, Leslie Cochran, is making a comeback.
The formerly homeless Austin icon was recently released from a hospital after he was found collapsed near Interstate 35 and Oltorf Street about a month ago.
His status brought together a mix of musicians and community members Sunday, to shed light on helping the homeless.
Leslie wore angel wings and said he felt blessed to be at the benefit held in his honor.
"Ignore the pain. Enjoy the good parts. If you worry about the pain, life is miserable," he said.
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Leslie Benefit
News 8's Karina Kling shows how the community is comming together to celebrate Leslie and raise awareness of homelesness.
 
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People in attendance could see Leslie had a good attitude despite his recovery efforts. The community rallied together to provide help. Some who had never met him showed up Sunday to support him.
"If it wasn't for you guys, who the hell would I be?" Leslie said.
Musician Luis Banuelos came out to help raise money for him, and also raise awareness for the homeless community.
"To give back is everything, because you get blessed 10 times fold and people recognize that," Banuelos said.
Banuelos said making it as a musician hasn't been easy, so helping out the homeless by simply sharing a song is his way of giving back.
"Finding a way to make their day somehow, some way," he said.
Amy Albright, organized the event. She said she saw an opportunity in light of Leslie’s status.
"With it being Leslie and him being so iconic, it's a perfect opportunity to get the word out about helping the homeless and indigent in the city," Albright said.
It was a benefit to help get Leslie back on his feet, but it was also a chance to bring to light issues associated with poverty and homelessness.
Ten bands were on tap for the benefit at One2One Bar, on the corner of Brazos Street and Fifth Street.
All proceeds helped Leslie pay hospital bills.
