Spreading Joy and Hope in the Fight Against Cancer
Every year, Hattiesburg communities unite in the fight against cancer, armed not with medicine and treatments, but with laughter, camaraderie and hope. Laughs 4 Life is an annual fundraiser that raises vital funds for cancer research and provides an outlet for people to come together in support of those affected by this devastating disease. This event has become a unique beacon of hope, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, laughter can be a powerful force for healing. Likewise, at Hattiesburg Clinic Hematology/Oncology, we believe that a smile can create a positive environment, reduces stress and uplift spirits. “We believe in the healing nature of smiles and laughter. By getting to know what makes each patient smile, we are able to improve their care,” John S. “Bo” Hrom, MD, FACP, said.
Laughs 4 Life was born out of the idea that laughter truly is the best medicine and can heal, uplift and bring people together. Since its inception in 2016, the event has become a significant platform for renowned comedians and individuals touched by cancer to gather, share their stories and bring joy to those fighting the disease. The event aims not only to generate funds for cancer research but also to generate smiles and laughter throughout our Hub City communities.
This year, the sold-out event was headlined by John Crist at the Saenger Theater in Hattiesburg, Miss., for an audience of nearly 1,000 people. Crist joins past comedians including Bill Engvall, Nate Bargatze, Leanne Morgan, Keith Alberstadt and Tig Notaro in donating his time and talent to perform on stage. His performance created an atmosphere of joy, allowing attendees to find humor even in the most challenging of circumstances.
Hattiesburg Clinic Hematology/Oncology is proud to partner with community businesses, organizations and area health care facilities to sponsor this important event. “This overwhelming support showcases the solidarity of our community and its dedication to fighting cancer,” Hrom said. “It serves as a reminder that, together, we can all make a difference in the lives of those affected by this disease.”
100% of the ticket and event sales go directly to the beneficiaries of Laughs 4 Life. To date, Laughs 4 Life has contributed nearly $840,000 to organizations including: The International Myeloma Foundation, CURE Childhood Cancer, Children’s of Mississippi, the Mayo Clinic and the Forrest General Cancer Center. By investing in research, Laughs 4 Life plays a crucial role in advancing our understanding of cancer, improving detection methods and developing new therapies that can save lives.
Hrom went on to say, “Laughs 4 Life is a testament to the power of laughter, community and the human spirit in the fight against cancer.” Year after year, this fundraiser brings people together and creates an environment of joy and support while paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries and life-saving treatments. Laughs 4 Life generates hope for a future free from cancer and serves as a reminder that laughter is indeed the best medicine in our shared journey toward a cancer-free world.