Influencer launches GoFundMe to pay damages in ‘trashed’ AirBnb after ‘three weeks of bending’

A Canadian influencer has turned to her Instagram followers to fund money to pay for the damage she caused to an Airbnb during a “three-week bender”.

Mary Magdalene (@1800leavemaryalone) was celebrating her 30th birthday in Los Angeles when she received a bill for £8,360 ($13,000) for the rental she had ‘trashed’.

Mary initially denied destroying the Airbnb and released evidence showing the condition of the rental and the host’s complaint. Although she later admitted responsibility for the damages.

Although she acknowledged she could afford to pay the bill herself, the self-proclaimed “plastic surgery fanatic” set up a GoFundMe page and took the odd request for donations on the platform.

Inevitably, this sparked a backlash from some users, who did not take her request well. This prompted Mary to upload a clip explaining the situation.

“So a lot of people are really mad at the GoFundMe campaign,” she said in the viral Instagram video.

“All I do is use ubiquitous platforms to my advantage. Don’t hate the player, hate the game.”

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The influencer said she knew the campaign was “ridiculous” and that there were many more “real causes” people could donate to.

“I’m not delusional or acting like it’s a big important cause – the platform is there so I’m trying to use it before I have to pay for the whole thing, which what I will do.

“But why not try that first?”

Acknowledging the mess, Mary said: “It’s my fault and I shouldn’t put myself in these situations.”

She added: “Anyone who doesn’t want to help, I don’t blame you, but those who do, girl power to you.

“Damn, I just wanted to say what the point. For those who were offended, I’m sorry, like I said, don’t hate the player, hate the game.”

She said if the GoFundMe doesn’t work out she’ll foot the bill, adding that she “did her best” to keep the rental in good shape and even hired a maid.

“I feel bad because the host was nice to me, even though I feel like I could have removed the stain from the couch because the maid I hired did before. “, she wrote.

Some people supported Mary’s motive, with one writing: “Yass angel make that $$$ / He who hates is jealous”.

Another said, “You don’t owe anyone an explanation.”

While a third added: “You are completely honest about why you need the funds. No need to hate.”

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