Fighting Cancer with a Night of Laughter and Hope
The annual Laughs 4 Life event once again proved to be a resounding success, bringing the Hub City together for a night of joy, laughter and support for a noble cause. Since its inception in 2016, Laughs 4 Life has been dedicated to raising awareness and funds for cancer research and patient-focused initiatives. By partnering with community businesses, organizations and health care facilities, including Hattiesburg Clinic Hematology/Oncology, this year’s event continued that tradition, contributing to the over $1.1 million already distributed to its beneficiaries.
Laughs 4 Life was born out of the idea that laughter truly is the best medicine and can heal, uplift and bring people together. 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 the Hub City.
John S. “Bo” Hrom, MD, FACP, with Hattiesburg Clinic Hematology/Oncology, has seen firsthand how this event impacts the community. “Laughs 4 Life has transformed the way we support cancer patients in Hattiesburg,” Dr. Hrom said. “The funds raised are crucial for advancing research and enhancing patient care, while the laughter brings a therapeutic boost to everyone involved.”
Held on Friday, July 26, 2024, at the historic Saenger Theater in downtown Hattiesburg, this year’s event was headlined by renowned comedian Demetri Martin, who followed in the footsteps of past performers John Crist, Bill Engvall, Nate Bargatze, Tig Notaro, Leanne Morgan and more. All proceeds from the event went directly to this year’s Laughs 4 Life beneficiaries: The International Myeloma Foundation, the Forrest General Hospital Cancer Center, and the Laughs 4 Life Lounge at Children’s of Mississippi.
“The impact of Laughs 4 Life extends far beyond financial support,” Hrom said. “This event creates a sense of community and hope, reminding patients and their families that they are not alone in their fight against cancer.”
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About Hattiesburg Clinic:
Hattiesburg Clinic is Mississippi’s largest privately-owned, multispecialty clinic. More than 60 years after its beginning, the clinic has grown to over 450 physicians and providers, caring for patients in more than 17 counties in South Mississippi. Along with over 2,500 professional staff employees, these physicians and providers come together for a common purpose, to serve the over 500,000 community members who live and work in South Mississippi every day.